Skin screenings 101: Why annual dermatology visits matter

In Fort Worth, it’s essential to protect your skin from the intense Texas sun. Skin cancer is preventable and your lifestyle choices now can help you avoid a diagnosis later.

While many people delay or skip their annual dermatology visit, Americans have a 1 in 5 chance of being diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70, with more than two Americans on average dying of the disease every hour.

When was your last skin screening? If you’re not sure, it may be time to schedule one – early detection of skin conditions can save your life.

 

What is a skin screening?

Your annual skin screening involves a dermatology specialist conducting a full-body skin check, including hard-to-see areas, to look for signs of skin cancers or skin conditions. The objective is to find melanomas, moles, lesions, bumps, or sores, and conduct a biopsy if necessary to evaluate if cells are cancerous. This preventative screening should happen annually to catch skin cancer in the early stages, possibly before you’ve noticed any symptoms.

 

Why annual dermatology visits matter

While skin cancer can affect anyone, Texans should take greater precautions due to the high UV index and sunny climate. Prioritizing regular skin checks is an essential piece of your prevention plan. Early detection of skin cancer can increase the survival rate significantly. For example, when Melanoma is caught before it spreads, there is a 99% five-year survival rate. 

Regular visits allow your dermatology specialist to get familiar with your skin and monitor changes over time, as well as managing ongoing conditions like acne, eczema or psoriasis.

In addition to skin cancer prevention and ongoing treatment, your dermatologist can create a personalized skincare routine tailored to your specific concerns and goals.

 

Who should get screened?

The short answer is…everyone! You might be at higher risk if you fit into one of the following categories:

• People with a history of sunburns, tanning bed use or lots of sun exposure

• Family history of skin cancer

• Individuals with lots of moles or fair skin

• Patients managing skin conditions or changes in skin health

It’s also important to note that skin checks are important for people of all skin tones. Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of melanin content. Because skin cancer is associated with fair skinned individuals, non-white people are more likely to be diagnosed at a later-stage. Please be aware that darker skin tones do not provide natural sun protection.

What to expect at your appointment

Your skin specialist will review your medical history, take a look at any areas that have you concerned, conduct a systematic, full-body skin examination and discuss treatment options.

If there is a spot that is concerning, you will likely have a biopsy to confirm if the cells are cancerous. Depending on the size and area, you may have a shave, punch or excisional biopsy. Your provider will follow up with lab results of your biopsy, usually by phone call.

If it is determined that you have skin cancer, you may be a candidate for Superficial Radiation Technology, or SRT, which is a non-surgical treatment option that is painless and leaves minimal or no scarring.

 

How to prepare for a skin screening

1. Remove makeup

2. Remove nail polish

3. Avoid lotions as they can temporarily change or mask a skin texture issue

4. Be prepared to change into a gown

5. Avoid wearing tight clothing that might leave redness or bumps on your skin

6. Be prepared to tell the dermatologist about any worrisome spots you want checked out

7. Bring photos if you’ve tracked changes yourself

 

Why patients choose UNT Health Dermatology

Our providers are board-certified dermatologists with extensive experience in treating medical and cosmetic skin issues. Dr. Michael Carletti and Dr. Stephen Weis are consistently recognized as some of the best dermatologists in Fort Worth by Fort Worth Magazine and 360West Magazine. A few reasons our patients love us:

• Compassionate care centered around your goals for your skin

• Access to advanced diagnostics and treatments, like SRT

• Convenient location in Fort Worth’s Cultural District

• UNT Health Clinical Practice Group is the academic clinical practice of UNT Health Fort Worth, meaning our providers are up-to-date on the latest in medical advancement as a result of teaching and practicing

 

Make Skin Health a Habit: Book Your Annual Visit Today

Whether you're looking for a new doctor for skin issues, or just haven’t come in for your annual check-up in a few years, it’s never too late to get back on track with preventative care. Make it a habit to come in annually.

To find out if you need a referral, or if our providers are in-network with your insurance, call our office and we’ll be happy to help! Book with UNT Health Dermatology by calling 817-735-7625 or request an appointment here!