Rockville, Frederick and surrounding areas dermatologist discuss high SPF at least 30 with zinc oxide to provide broad-spectrum protection

Dr. Prussick and his qualified staff at Washington Dermatology Center in Rockville, Frederick and surrounding areas believe that taking good care of the skin helps reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. Skin cancer is becoming an epidemic as doctors are seeing more and more diagnosis of cancerous skin cells on patients as young as their 20s. This is due to miseducation regarding skin protection and the dangers of sun tanning and tanning beds. Dr. Ron Prussick encourages patients of all ages to visit his practice to discuss prevention from skin cancer.

Prevention from skin cancer starts with reducing exposure to UVA and UVB rays. These are often obtained through tanning beds and sunlight. Patients who spend time in tanning beds or out in the sun to achieve darker skin are putting themselves at serious risk for developing skin cancer. In addition, severe sunburns can greatly increase one’s risk for developing skin cancer later in life, which is why it is so important to wear sun block whenever exposed to the outdoor elements. Sun block should have a high SPF and provide broadband protection from both UVA and UVB light. Patients should also avoid tanning beds as well as “sunbathing” as this is a negative habit.

Additionally, patients should wear the proper clothing when outdoors to reduce exposure to ultraviolet light that can harm the skin. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants–preferably with a UV block rating, should be worn when outdoors for extended periods of time, as well as hats and sunglasses to protect both the skin and the eyes from sun damage.

Prevention is as easy as taking just a few minutes a day to apply sunscreen each morning during one’s skin care routine. Dr. Ron Prussick of Washington Dermatology Center also provides skin checks and can perform biopsies when patients are worried about areas that may indicate cancerous skin cells such as changing moles or unusual skin tags or growths. Contact our practice to book a skin evaluation or a simple consultation appointment with our team of professionals to learn about proper skin care and protection.