If you live to the age of 65, you have between a 40 percent and 50 percent chance of getting skin cancer at least once in your lifetime, according to data supplied by the Skin Cancer Foundation. There are many instances when cancerous lesions are successfully removed by surgery or with topical medications during an outpatient procedure. After cancerous or precancerous lesions are treated, you must diligently protect your skin.
Sun Protection
Protecting your skin from the sun is the cornerstone in post-skin cancer care. The American Academy of Dermatology stresses the importance of applying a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 to every exposed part of your skin at least 20 minutes before going outdoors. Additionally, the AAD recommends putting on clothing that covers your legs and arms and wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat whenever you're outdoors. If you're not sure if your clothing is protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, hold it up against a light source. If the material appears more transparent than opaque, it won't protect your skin.
Minimizing Your Exposure
The AAD cautions skin cancer patients from going outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its peak. But if you must go outside, make sure to apply sunscreen every two hours, especially after engaging in physical activity. Stay in the shade as much as possible. Also keep in mind that water, snow and sand reflect the sun's rays. Don't slack off on overcast days---the AAD states that 80 percent of UV rays pass through cloud cover.
Self-examination
Routine self-examinations of the entire body can help you detect changes in your skin. The AAD indicates that your dermatologist will show you how to perform a self-examination after your skin cancer treatment (to read more, see "Resources"). When caught early on, 95 percent of cancerous lesions can be effectively treated. Everyone should know how to detect changes in their skin---not just those who've had skin cancer, advises the AAD.
Check-ups
Routine check-ups can give you great piece of mind, says the AAD. Unfortunately, many skin cancer patients are wary of scheduling follow-up appointments with their dermatologist due to fear that another cancerous lesion will be spotted. But as noted above, early detection and treatment of skin cancer leads to the most thorough resolution. If you have questions or concerns about your skin care, write them down and discuss them at your follow-up appointments.
Your Skin Care Plan
Skin cancer affects patients in various ways, depending on how advanced lesions were when they were treated. The follow-up plan your dermatologist gives you will be unique to your specific needs, notes the AAD. To make sure that you exercise the best skin care after skin cancer treatment, ask your doctor to put your plan in writing, and follow it diligently.
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