Skin Cancer Awareness Month: What You Should Know to Protect Your Skin Year-Round

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a reminder that protecting your skin isn’t just a summer priority — it’s a year-round commitment to your long-term health. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but when caught early, it’s also one of the most treatable. That’s why understanding your risk and staying vigilant matters.

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Know Your Risks

Everyone’s skin can be affected, but risk increases with certain factors like:

• A history of sunburns or heavy UV exposure

• Fair skin, light hair, and light eye color

• A large number of moles or unusual moles

• Family history of skin cancer

• Tanning bed use

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Prevention Starts with Protection

Simple habits can make a big difference:

• Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, even on cloudy days (my favorite face sunscreen is by supergoop - it’s lightweight and good under makeup and not greasy)

• Seek shade, especially between 10 am–4 pm

• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses

• Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors

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Early Detection Saves Lives

One of the best ways to protect your skin is knowing what to look for. The ABCDEs of melanoma can help you spot suspicious lesions:

• Asymmetry

• Border irregularity

• Color variation

• Diameter larger than a pencil eraser

• Evolving shape, size, or color

If you notice anything unusual, don’t wait — early evaluation matters.

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Introducing DermaSensor at Ascend Wellness MD

We’re excited to add DermaSensor, a cutting-edge, FDA-cleared handheld device that enhances skin evaluations right here in our office. DermaSensor uses advanced technology to assess suspicious skin lesions safely and non-invasively during your visit. It’s another tool in our toolbox to help detect skin abnormalities sooner and make informed decisions about next steps.

Whether you’re due for a full body skin exam or have noticed a mole that’s changed, ask your doctor about DermaSensor today — don’t wait to check a suspicious lesion.

Make it stand out

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Year-Round Skin Health

Skin cancer awareness shouldn’t end in May. Make skin checks part of your regular health routine, and talk to your provider about any changes you see. With prevention, protection, and early detection, you can take charge of your skin health — every month of the year.

Protect your skin. Protect your health. Your body will thank you. Reach out if you want to make an appointment for a scan!