The Best Ways to Prevent Basal Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer

How to Avoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer

Basal cell carcinoma skin cancer or BCC skin cancer is the most common type of skin cancer. It develops in the basal cells that are located at the base of the epidermis, often appearing as a thin yellow mark, a reddish patch, a clear pearly or waxy bump, or an open sore that doesn’t heal. Basal cell carcinoma skin cancers that form on other parts of the head often look similar to a wart, crusty spot, reddish patch, mole, or sore that doesn’t heal.

Certain individuals – including those with lighter hair and eye colors, people who experience heavy UV exposure, those with a family history of skin cancer, and those with a high number of moles on their skin – are the most at risk for skin cancer.

Applying sunscreen each day can significantly lower your risk of skin cancer compared to applying it intermittently. Sunscreen is one of the most well-known options for preventing basal cell carcinoma skin cancer. Although sunscreen is critical, there are also some other effective ways to help lower the risk of skin cancer.

Limiting your exposure to sunlight is important. We recommend that you simply seek shade during the peak hours of sunlight, between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. roughly, avoid tanning and never use tanning beds, cover up with sun-protective long- sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses, and avoid getting sunburned. You may want to schedule your outdoor activities for other times of the day. Ensure that you are using SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum sunscreen and apply it at all times of the year even during the winter and on cloudy days. Check your skin regularly and report any changes to a dermatologist. Avoid smoking and exposure to certain harmful chemicals that are known to increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma skin cancer.

Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer

Our practice specializes in skin cancer treatments for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and more, including curettage and Mohs surgery. For basal cell carcinoma skin cancer that is developing on a low-risk area, we may recommend standard surgical excision.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer: Which Other Medical and Cosmetic Treatments Are Available?

Along with treatment and care of basal cell carcinoma skin cancer, Dermatology Group of Arkansas also provides medical treatments for other skin conditions such as psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema.

Cosmetic treatments to improve the appearance of your skin are also available, including BOTOX^®, an injectable that reduces dynamic wrinkles linked to habitual facial expressions and hyaluronic acid fillers – gel-like substances that add volume to reduce wrinkles and refine facial contours.