Let’s Talk About Skin Cancer: What You Need to Know This May

Why We’re Talking About Skin Cancer This Month  May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and here at Young Skin Med, we believe that education is the first step to prevention. This month gives us the opportunity to bring attention to one of the most common yet often overlooked cancers in the United States. It also allows us to empower our patients and our community with tools to detect skin cancer early, understand their risk, and take simple daily steps to protect their skin. Whether you’ve been diligent about annual skin exams or this is your first time hearing about the ABCDEs of melanoma, we’re here to support you with the knowledge and care you need. 

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. But here’s the good news: when caught early and treated properly, it’s also one of the most curable.  

What Makes Skin Cancer So Serious? 

More than 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the U.S. each year, and the numbers continue to rise. While some forms are less aggressive, melanoma can spread quickly if left untreated. That’s why early detection is key. 

Performing self-exams and getting regular full-body skin checks with your dermatologist could be life-saving. 

Know the Signs: The ABCDEs of Melanoma 

Skin cancer can be hard to spot, especially in its early stages. That’s where the ABCDE rule comes in. This simple guide helps you recognize changes in your skin that could be signs of melanoma: 

A – Asymmetry: One half of the spot does not match the other 

B – Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred 

C – Color: There are multiple colors or uneven shading 

D – Diameter: The spot is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) 

E – Evolution: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color, or starts to itch or bleed 

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait, book an exam with us immediately. 

The Message Behind #GetNaked 

The #GetNaked campaign, created by the Melanoma Research Foundation, urges people to perform full-body skin checks, and we stand behind it. 

Melanoma doesn’t always show up in obvious places. It can hide in areas like your scalp, between your toes, under your nails, or even in your eye. That’s why complete, head-to-toe skin checks are so important. 

This month, we’re encouraging you to: 

• Do a full skin self-exam at home 

• Schedule your annual skin exam with a provider 

• Talk to your loved ones about doing the same 

  
  

Skin checks aren’t just for people who tan or spend lots of time in the sun. They’re for everyone. 

How to Protect Your Skin Every Day 

Preventing skin cancer is easier than you think. Just a few consistent habits can make a major difference: 

• Avoid tanning beds: They increase your risk of melanoma dramatically. 

• Wear protective clothing: Hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves add an extra layer of safety. 

• Seek shade: Stay out of direct sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. 
  

Not sure which sunscreen is right for your skin type? Visit our office or ask our team, we’re happy to help you find your perfect fit.