Note from the mamas: We all battle skin issues at one point or another. And most of us know first-hand that our skin can change a lot throughout pregnancies as well as simple aging. So we’re happy to announce that local dermatologist Dr. Cheryl Hull of Hull Dermatology will be one of the experts giving us tips here in the Beauty Buzz category. Dr. Hull will answer skin-related questions every other week. You may submit a question for her at mamas@nwaMotherlode.com and it may be featured in an upcoming installment of Beauty Buzz. Welcome, Dr. Hull!
What are the red flags that indicate a mole is “suspicious” and should be checked by a doctor?
Skin cancer detection and treatment is a top priority in my dermatology practice. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. The incidence of many common cancers is falling, but the incidence of melanoma continues to rise significantly, at a rate faster than that of any of the seven most common cancers. More than 20 Americans die each day from skin cancer, primarily melanoma. One person dies of melanoma every hour.
(A photo of a malignant, melanoma mole is pictured at right. Be aware that not all melanoma moles look the same.)
Melanoma is the most common cancer for young adults 25-29 years old and the second most common form of cancer for adolescents and young adults 15-29 years old. Women aged 39 and under have a higher probability of developing melanoma than any other cancer except breast cancer.
The most important sign to watch for is change of any kind. Do not ignore a suspicious spot because it does not hurt, as pain is often not a sign. The changes to watch for include: changes in color, size, thickness, texture, outline or if a spot itches, hurts, crusts, scabs or bleeds.
If you spot any of these changes, do not delay getting it checked.
“Beauty Buzz” is sponsored by Hull Dermatology, with offices in Rogers, Bella Vista and at the Eureka Springs Hospital. Dr. Hull has published several scientific papers and has received numerous awards and honors for her work in dermatology. For more info, click here to visit the Hull Dermatology website or call them at 479-254-9662.
