Skin Cancer Treatment in Fullerton, CA

Wearing sunscreen and protective gear anytime you are exposed to the sun is important to preventing skin damage and skin cancer.

Though people with fair skin that burns easily are more at risk for developing skin cancer, everyone is at risk for skin cancer. Regardless of your skin tone, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect your skin from overexposure. Protecting your skin from extensive sun exposure can also help prevent wrinkles, sunspots, and uneven skin tone. The board-certified otolaryngologists at Greater Orange County Ear, Nose Throat – Head & Neck Surgeons have extensive experience diagnosing and treating patients for skin cancer. Call (714) 447-4100 to schedule an appointment at our ENT office in Fullerton, CA today!

How to Protect Your Skin from Skin Cancer?

• Limit direct sunlight during the hours of 10 am and 4 pm when the UV rays are strongest.
• Monitor the UV index to prevent overexposure on days when the Index is moderate or higher.
• Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF on any exposed skin, and don’t forget to re-apply at least every 2 hours. The effectiveness of sunscreen depends on the SPF, which is the sun protection factor, and our office recommends at least 30 SPF. A broad-spectrum sunscreen will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
• Wear clothing and other protective gear, like a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses, to increase sun protection and decrease potential damage.

What are the Types of Skin Cancer?

There are different types of skin cancer that have different warning signs and will look differently on your skin.

• Melanoma. Melanoma often resembles moles and are usually black or brown. Asymmetry, an uneven border, and having a variety of colors are signs that a mole is malignant Melanoma. It is the most common form of cancer in people ages 25 – 29, but people of all ages should check their skin each month to detect abnormalities early on.
• Basic Cell Carcinoma. Basic Cell Carcinoma is the most frequently occurring type of skin cancer, and almost half of Americans will have either basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma at least once by the age of 65. This type of skin cancer typically looks like sores, red patches, pink growths, shiny bumps, or a scar.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma. The warning signs of Squamous Cell Carcinoma are3 a thick, rough, scaly patch that will bleed if irritated. It can also look like an open sore or a wart.

An odd looking mole might just seem like an abnormality to some people, but it can be a sign of something much more serious. Dermatologists are the only ones who can tell if a mole is cancerous, so be sure to schedule an appointment with Greater Orange County Ear, Nose, Throat, Head and Neck Surgeons if you notice a discolored mole.