The incidence of skin cancer, which is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in the U.S., is rapidly on the rise. As a practicing dermatologist, I find myself detecting these cancers in younger and younger patients who are visiting the office for reasons other than a full body skin check. Three main types of skin cancer are routinely diagnosed and can be subdivided into…

Even as the rates of some cancers are falling, Mayo Clinic is seeing a shocking trend: the dramatic rise of skin cancer, especially among people under 40. According to a study by Mayo Clinic, the incidence of melanoma has escalated, and young women are the hardest hit. Researchers conducted a population-based study. The study found the incidence of melanoma increased eightfold amongst young women and fourfold among…

Summer brings a feeling of liberation as we shed our winter layers, but there can be a downside to this emancipation: sunburn. In spite of everything we know about UV damage and the risk of skin cancer, every spring and summer brings waves of lobster-red vacationers to the drugstore and the spa in search of soothing relief. The sunburn goes away in terms of the…

Do you know what is more difficult than getting sunscreen on that hard to reach spot in the middle of your back? It is knowing and understanding the vast array of information on professional quality sunscreens from SPF to UVA, including all of the new labeling rules and skin cancer facts. Just like applying sunscreen takes a helping hand, so does learning some sun care…