Florida Skin Center Offers Tips for Protecting and Improving Your Skin

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Aug. 30, 2021 - PRLog -- September is Skin Care Awareness month, designed to draw attention to skin health and care. Florida Skin Center (FSC) recommends six ways to protect and improve your skin.

"Taking care of your skin is important for more than just your appearance," said Florida Skin Center's Director of Mohs Surgery, Chetan Vedvyas, M.D. "As the largest organ, your skin is essential to your general health. It is worth the time and energy to protect your skin.

Visit your skin care provider for a full-body skin check, a visual examination of the skin to analyze skin conditions or check for cancer and precancerous growths. FSC offers annual complimentary full-body skin check by appointment at all four of its locations.

Self-examinations are particularly important for people at higher risk of skin cancer; those with weakened immunity, people who have had skin cancer before, and those with a strong family history of skin cancer. "Choose a well-lit room in front of a full-length mirror," said Vedvyas "Use a hand-held mirror to look at areas that are hard to see. Learn the pattern of moles, blemishes, freckles, and other marks on your skin so that you'll notice any changes next time. Be sure to talk to your skin care provider about concerns."

Proper hydration is essential to your overall health. If the outermost layer of the skin doesn't contain enough water, the skin will lose elasticity and feel rough. To maintain hydrated skin, avoid prolonged contact with hot water, and moisturize after taking a bath or shower or washing your hands. Understand your skin type and choose appropriate skin care products. Partner with a licensed aesthetician to create a skincare routine that is right for you.

"Sunscreen is one of the most important things you can do for your skin," said Vedvyas "Sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots, and other skin problems, and daily sunscreen use protects you from harmful ultraviolet rays."The American Academy of Dermatology recommends everyone use a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, is SPF 30 or higher, and is water-resistant.

Stay out of tanning beds. Tanning beds, just like the sun, emit harmful UV radiation that causes skin cancer. "Even one indoor tanning session can increase your risk of developing melanoma by 20%, squamous cell carcinoma by 67%, and basal cell carcinoma by 29%," said Vedvyas.

Keep your hands off your face.  When you touch your face, you transfer dirt, germs, and oil from your hands to your face. So do your best to leave your skin alone. Also, avoid picking, popping, or squeezing pimples, as this can cause scarring.

Appointment scheduling and text messaging are available online at FloridaSkinCenter.com or call (239) 561-3376.