When a Spot on the Skin is More Than a Spot
By Genevieve Cunningham
We take our skin for granted. That might seem like an odd statement, but it’s completely true. When we’re young, fresh skin is a given. It doesn’t matter if we spend all day in the sun or don’t wash for a few days, besides a little acne, our skin is basically beautiful. It’s only as we age that we realize just how much we’ve taken our skin for granted. But no matter your age, protecting the skin is so important … especially when it comes to diseases like skin cancer. With skin cancer on the rise, it’s imperative to understand when a spot is more than just a spot. To help protect your skin and keep it healthy, take a look at these signs of a problem.
Size and Shape
A mole is a mole is a mole, right? Not at all. One important factor in a cancerous mole is that its size and shape will be different than other moles. Cancerous moles are often large (bigger than a pencil eraser in diameter), but more importantly, they’re usually irregular in shape. The edges will be rough and it won’t form a perfect circle. If you notice a mole that meets these conditions, get it checked.
Growth or Change
Another worrisome mole is one that grows or changes over time. Moles aren’t really supposed to change much. A cancerous mole may darken, grow larger, or morph into a strange shape. The bottom line? If you have a mole that is changing before your very eyes, it certainly won’t hurt to get to a dermatologist.
Worry
Sometimes we just know things. And even if we’re wrong, there’s nothing wrong with checking up on something that is worrying you. If you have a place on your skin that is causing you some concern, just get it checked. If it’s something, you may have caught it early. If it’s nothing, you may gain a little peace of mind. Any time you have a health condition that’s worrying you, get to a professional for help. That’s why they’re there, and it certainly can’t hurt to be proactive.
If you haven’t been taking care of your skin, it’s never too late. You won’t be able to undo any damage that’s already been done, but you may be able to prevent further damage. Wear sunscreen, layer up, and moisturize. Don’t take your skin for granted, and you may be blessed with beautiful skin and self-confidence for a lifetime.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Charlotte, N.C.