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by Robin Moran, PA-C
June 2026
When it comes to health, many people prioritize diet, exercise, and regular checkups with their primary care physician. But one area that’s often overlooked is skin health. Considering that skin is the largest organ in the body and your first line of defense against environmental stressors it deserves just as much attention as your heart, lungs, or any other vital system. One of the most critical yet underappreciated ways to care for your skin is through regular skin cancer screenings and the use of dermatologist-recommended skincare products.
How often should you get your skin checked?
Dermatologists generally recommend a full-body skin exam once a year for adults, especially those with a history of sunburns, tanning bed use, or a family history of skin cancer. However, if you notice any suspicious lesions, new growths, changes in moles, or spots that aren’t healing well you should schedule an appointment to have these areas evaluated as soon as possible. Patients with a history of skin cancer are recommended to have a skin exam every 4-6 months.
A full-body exam typically takes about 10-15 minutes and is painless. During the screening, a dermatology provider will examine your skin from head to toe, checking for irregular moles, lesions, or spots that warrant closer inspection or biopsy. Any issues a patient has will be addressed and treatment rendered whether it’s a biopsy, liquid nitrogen treatment, prescription therapy, etc. Catching a skin cancer in its early stages often means a minor outpatient procedure and a much lower chance of complications or recurrence.
What to look for at home? The Role of Self – Exams
It’s important to check your skin on a monthly basis in addition to regular skin cancer screening exams by a dermatology provider (MD, PA or NP).
Use the ABCDE rule to assess your moles:
A: Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
B: Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges
C: Color: Multiple colors or uneven distribution
D: Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
E: Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or color
If you spot anything concerning, don’t wait to have it evaluated!
Dermatologist Recommended Skincare – Why does this matter?
The beauty industry, along with social media these days, is flooded with products making bold claims, but not all are backed by science. Dermatologist recommended skincare lines are formulated based on clinical research, ensuring they are safe and effective for various skin types. These skin care products have effective ingredients, proper pH, sun protection at an appropriate SPF (30 or higher), and are tailored to the patients’ skin concerns.
Using dermatologist-approved skincare isn’t just about aesthetics – it can play a crucial role in skin cancer prevention. For instance, antioxidant-rich serums and moisturizers can neutralize free radicals caused by sun exposure, reducing DNA damage that could lead to cancer. Night creams containing retinoids may encourage cell turnover, helping to shed damaged cells and promote healthier skin.
Pairing a consistent skincare routine with regular skin cancer monitoring exams creates a powerful fight against skin cancer and aging. Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate by age, gender, or race and doesn’t always give warning signs. That’s why taking a proactive approach to regular skin cancer monitoring exams is important.
