Your Skin Deserves a Second Look This May

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and one in five Americans will develop it in their lifetime. Living in Florida means year-round sun exposure that puts our skin to the test every single day. The good news is that when detected early, skin cancer is also one of the most treatable conditions a dermatologist sees.

That’s why May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month, is the perfect time to make your skin health a priority. Dermatology Specialists of Florida is making it easy to do exactly that.

Elizabeth Miller

On Tuesday, May 13, the Tallahassee office at 1474 Market Street will host a free community skin cancer screening conducted by Elizabeth Miller, APRN-C. Spots are limited and fill up quickly. Community members who are at least 18 years of age and have not had a professional skin screening within the past 12 months are encouraged to reserve a spot by calling (850) 386-3376.

“So many of my patients tell me they almost didn’t come in because a spot didn’t seem serious enough to bother with. Early detection is everything in skin cancer, and a quick, painless exam can genuinely save a life. This screening is our way of removing every barrier and just inviting our community in.” — Elizabeth Miller, APRN-C, Dermatology Specialists of Florida.

Kaisa van der Kooi

For those who may need further evaluation or treatment, Dermatology Specialists of Florida offers comprehensive skin cancer care right here in Tallahassee. Leading that care is Dr. Kaisa van der Kooi, MD, FAAD, FASDP, a board-certified dermatologist, board-certified dermatopathologist, and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon. Mohs micrographic surgery is considered the gold standard for treating many common skin cancers, offering the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Dr. van der Kooi brings an exceptional depth of expertise to Tallahassee, and her patients benefit from having that level of specialized, multidisciplinary care available close to home.

The ABCDEs of melanoma are worth knowing year-round: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving changes in any spot or mole. If something looks different, or if you simply haven’t had a skin check recently, scheduling a professional exam is always a good idea.

Prevention matters just as much as detection. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher every morning and reapply every two hours when spending time outdoors. Wear UV-protective sunglasses, wide-brim hats, and lightweight protective clothing when in the sun for extended periods. Seek shade during peak UV hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and avoid tanning beds entirely. Even on cloudy days, up to 80 percent of UV rays still reach your skin, making sun protection a year-round commitment here in Florida.

To make that commitment a little easier this month, Aqua Medical Spa is offering 25% off all sunscreen throughout May, available in-spa at the Tallahassee location and online at aquamedicalspa.com.

Your skin is worth protecting at every age and every stage. Schedule your appointment today at mydermspecialists.com or call (850) 386-3376.