The Bright Side of Sun Safety

Throughout southeast Wisconsin, many of us enjoy spending our summers outside. In our climate, sunny days are certainly valuable– but enjoying them could come at a cost if you’re not diligent about sun protection.

“More than 90 percent of skin cancer is caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation,” says Dr. James Lynott, board-certified dermatologist and partner with Great Lakes Dermatology. “UV rays promote cancer because they damage skin cells and disrupt the body’s immune system, which allows those sun-damaged cells to grow out of control and become skin cancer.” This one-two punch is why Dr. Lynott strongly recommends sun safety – especially if you have a history of sunburns.

UV protection
First, he says, if you’re going to be outdoors for more than one half hour, apply UVA/UVB sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. If you’re going to be swimming or playing sports, choose a waterproof sunblock. “These products are waterproof, but they’re not ‘towel proof’ so remember to reapply,” says Dr. Lynott.
You should also wear a hat and avoid peak sun hours – UV rays are at their strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. – for optimal sun protection. “You can still enjoy the outdoors; just be careful while you’re out there golfing, boating, gardening or whatever you like to do,” says Dr. Lynott. As for tanning beds? Just don’t use them, period. For a healthier glow, try spray-on or sunless tanners, which are best applied sparingly over a number of days to avoid creating an orange tint.

Full skin exams
Although most sun-related lesions start small and are low risk, they can grow into skin cancer if they’re not treated. Dr. Lynott recommends a skin self-exam. Check your face, head, hands, arms and legs for:

• Moles that change in size, color or shape;
• Dark lesions with irregular borders or unusual colors;
• Scar-like patches; and
• Any other new bumps or nodules.

“If you notice symptoms, or you’re not sure about something, please come in for a full skin exam,” says Dr. Lynott. With convenient locations throughout southeast Wisconsin, patients who find something suspicious can quickly make an appointment and receive a diagnosis from a dermatologist

Treatment options
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.

“Skin cancer treatment depends on a number of factors including size, location and type of cancer. But it also depends on you, the patient,” says Dr. Lynott, who believes procedures begin well before entering the treatment room. Our dermatologists can educate you on sun safety and work with you to make the best decisions about your skin care.

For example, some small, slow-growing skin cancers require only medication, freezing or small excisions (cutting). For faster growing melanomas and some carcinomas, Dr. Lynott may recommend skin cancer surgery, such as tissue-sparing Mohs micrographic surgery.

Dr. Lynott is currently one of a handful of surgeons in our region who perform this procedure, which allows him to remove skin cancer in stages rather than excising an entire area. He meticulously removes each portion of the cancerous tissue, then microscopically examines it to make sure the unhealthy cells are gone and healthy tissue remains. “We’re going for clear edges at the perimeter, with the smallest possible margin to reduce scaring,” says Dr. Lynott.

Mohs surgery is up to 99 percent effective for removing carcinoma and works well for early-stage melanoma as well. However, Dr. Lynott says the best way to protect yourself from skin cancer will always be prevention, so make sure you’re diligent about sun safety and enjoy your summer.

Call 800-227-5135 today to reserve a skin cancer screening with Dr. Lynott and learn more about Mohs surgery at the Racine and Franklin clinics.