May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, so it’s the perfect time to tighten up daily habits. We recommend a broad‑spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher every day, reapplying every two hours (and after swimming or sweating). Wear UPF clothing, a wide‑brim hat, and UV‑blocking sunglasses. Seek shade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and skip tanning beds altogether. Here are some additional skin cancer prevention tips for Little Rock patients.

Less‑Talked‑About Tips You’ll Love

  • Windows matter: UVA rays penetrate car and home windows. Keep sunscreen in your bag and consider UV‑protective window film for frequent drivers.
  • Don’t forget lips, scalp, and ears: Use SPF lip balm, dust mineral sunscreen on the part line, and get the tops of ears and feet.
  • Nail and gel‑lamp savvy: Melanoma can appear under nails. Remove polish before skin checks, and if you enjoy gel manicures, wear fingerless UV‑protective gloves or apply SPF before the lamp.
  • Meds can boost sun sensitivity: Some antibiotics, diuretics, acne therapies (like retinoids), and St. John’s wort increase photosensitivity. Check labels and ask us.
  • Sunscreen + bug spray: Apply sunscreen first, let it set 10–15 minutes, then use repellent so you don’t dilute coverage.
  • Get vitamin D smart: Prefer food and supplements over “sun for D.”
  • Water and clouds: Water reflects UV, and up to 80% of rays pass through clouds—reapply even on overcast days.

What To Watch for and Why Early Checks Matter

Know The Warning Signs

Early stages of skin cancer are easier to treat. Watch the ABCDEs of moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving change. Nonhealing, shiny, or bleeding spots can indicate basal cell carcinoma; rough, tender, or scaly patches may suggest squamous cell carcinoma. Dark, changing lesions—especially new or unusual—could signal melanoma. If you’re unsure, we want to see it.

Actinic Keratosis Deserves Attention

Actinic keratosis (those persistent rough, sandpapery spots) is precancerous. Addressing it promptly helps lower future risk and can simplify skin cancer treatment if needed.

Make Prevention A Year‑Round Habit Across Central Arkansas

Annual Skin Exams and Daily Routines

We encourage a head‑to‑toe skin exam yearly—or sooner for higher‑risk patients—and monthly self‑checks, including the scalp, soles, and under nails. Keep a running photo log to spot change.
Living in and around Little Rock, Benton, Conway, Hot Springs, and Pine Bluff means lots of sunshine—great for the soul, but plan for shade, reapplication, and protective clothing every season.

Ready to schedule a full‑body skin exam or talk personalized skin cancer prevention in Little Rock? Call (501) 227-8422 or send a message online to see Dermatology Group of Arkansas in Little Rock, Benton, Conway, Hot Springs, or Pine Bluff. We’re here to help you stay protected, spot issues early, and choose the right skin cancer treatment if needed.