Essential Winter Skincare Tips: Dermatologist’s Guide to Preventing Cancer and Maintaining Healthy Skin
As we observe National Healthy Skin Month, leading dermatologists emphasize the critical importance of year-round skincare, particularly during the challenging winter months. Dr. Tyler Evans, a distinguished dermatologist at CHI Health, shares expert insights on protecting our body’s largest organ – the skin.
Winter Skincare: Beyond Basic Moisturizing
While many associate intensive skincare with summer months, Dr. Evans stresses that winter demands equally rigorous attention. “In these fall months when the weather starts to change, we see people with skin issues start to flare,” explains Dr. Evans. He particularly emphasizes the importance of switching from regular lotions to thick creams, typically available in jars, as these provide superior moisture retention and skin barrier protection.
Year-Round Sun Protection: A Non-Negotiable Practice
Contrary to common belief, sun protection isn’t just for summer. Dr. Evans strongly advocates for incorporating sunscreen into daily skincare routines, regardless of the season. This year-round approach helps prevent cumulative sun damage, a leading cause of skin aging and cancer.
Understanding Skin Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives
Regular skin checks are crucial for early cancer detection. Dr. Evans outlines two primary types of skin cancer to watch for:
- Non-melanoma skin cancer: Often appears as persistent, non-healing areas on sun-exposed regions like the head, neck, and forearms.
- Melanoma: Typically develops in moles, requiring vigilant monitoring of specific characteristics:
Warning Signs to Monitor:
Monitor moles for asymmetry, irregular borders (particularly jagged edges), concerning colors (especially dark black or multi-colored appearances), and any changes in size, shape, or color. These changes warrant immediate professional evaluation by a dermatologist.