The New Year is the perfect time to renew your commitment to self-care and that includes prioritizing your skin health. Scheduling your annual or baseline skin check is an important aspect of your overall health.
Importance of Regular Skin Checks
Routine self-skin examinations play a pivotal role in early detection of potential skin issues, including the identification of suspicious moles, growths, or changes in your skin’s appearance. By staying vigilant, you empower yourself to take measures and address concerns before they escalate.
Scheduling an annual skin check with a skin specialist allows you to prioritize your skin health. Proactive screening enables for early detection, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment if an issue is found. Don’t put off making an appointment for assessments, consultations, or discussions about your skin.
A baseline skin check provides a starting point for comparison during future skin checks. Additionally, it helps to determine risk factors for skin cancer and educates you about the signs of potential skin issues.
Finding a skin specialist who uses a dermatoscope impacts the way your skin is examined.
Seasonal Changes
January also marks seasonal changes in weather in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter can impact your skin with cold, dry air and is a good time to continue to prioritize your skin health .
- Drier skin can be uncomfortable–itching being the top complaint. Moisturize more, wear gloves (but change them if they get wet), use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, and limit taking hot showers.
- Sunscreen is not just for summer! Snow and ice reflect the sun’s rays increasing the intensity and your risk for skin damage. Sledding, skiing, or walking in the snow? Apply sunscreen!
Prioritizing regular skin checks is not just a resolution; it’s a commitment to your long-term well-being. Take charge of your skin health in 2024.