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May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a good time to make skin care and sun protection a top priority, while counting down the days to warmer weather.
Over one million people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year, and many cases could be prevented with an effective skin management routine. The American Cancer Society encourages everyone to cover up with the right sun protective gear and take extra steps to protect their skin during outdoor activities.
Fortunately, the cure rate for most skin cancers is almost 100%, if found and treated early. If you notice a new growth or any changes in an existing skin growth, don't assume it's nothing to worry about. New bleeding lesions, pink ulcerated lesions, or irregular pigmented lesions are of the most concern. You can get your skin evaluated by Dr. Van Raalte at Iowa Plastic Surgery. He can evaluate benign or malignant (cancerous) tumors and remove them in our office, usually at the same visit.
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With the summer sun and beautiful weather comes the increased risk of sun damage. Most of us worry about aging gracefully, but preventative measures like a good sunscreen can be your best protection from the damaging UVA and UVB rays. A good sunscreen can help cut down on free radicals that damage the skins elastin and collagen. Dr. Van Raalte states "...this can lead to premature aging. It can give you a more weathered, wrinkled, or blotchy look to skin on the face and body."
Proper sun protection is the best anti-aging treatment you can do for yourself. Iowa Plastic Surgery carries two quality sunscreens to protect the skin on the face and body.
Skin Medica® - TNS Ultimate Daily Moisturizer + SPF 20
LaRoche-Posay - Anthelios 40 Sunscreen Cream
Jane Iredale® makeup also has a broad spectrum UVB and UVA protection up to SPF 30... so layering your makeup is good for extended wear.
Both of our skin care lines - Skin Medica® and LaRoche Posay have anti-aging formulas that help improve damage caused by the sun.
For more information on skin cancer and tips for reducing the risk of skin cancer please visit www.cancer.org
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