Skin Cancer  NYC Dermatology   Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Gary Rothfeld   Manhattan, New York

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States.The two most common types are basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer. They usually form on the head, face, neck, hands and arms. Another type of skin cancer, melanoma, is more dangerous but less common. Dr. Rothfeld Board Certified Dermatologist at NYC Dermatology and Skin Institute has over 20 years of experience in treating and diagnosing skin cancer of all forms.

Anyone can get skin cancer, but it is more common in people who

  • Spend a lot of time in the sun or have been sunburned
  • Have light-colored skin, hair and eyes
  • Have a family member with skin cancer
  • Are over age 50

Sun Protection

NYC attracts many people because there many days of each year of blue skies and sunshine. While it is wonderful that we can enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise (hopefully!) in the process, we also need to be aware of the long term affects of the sun. Here is what you need to know about sun protection to avoid being one of the 500,000 people in this country each year who are diagnosed with skin cancer.

Enjoy the Sun
When going outside always use a sunscreen. The higher the SPF rating of the sunscreen, the longer you can stay out before re-applying the sunscreen.

What is SPF?
SPF is an acronym for Sun Protection Factor. Take the amount of time it would take to burn without sunscreen (UV Index) and multiply it by the sunscreen's Sun Protection Factor to figure out how long you can be outside with sunscreen. For example, if it will take 15 minutes to burn today without sunscreen, and you use an SPF 8 product, you can say outside 2 hours without burning (8 x 15= 120 minutes or 2 hours).

Is It That Simple?
No, of course it isn't! Sun Protection Factor numbers serve as a guideline. How sunscreen affects and protects you that depends on your skin type, the strength of the sunlight, the type of sunscreen you use (gel, cream, lotion, or oil), and the amount you apply. In general, don't be skimpy when applying your sunscreen, and reapply it after you have been sweating or swimming.

What If I Have Blue Eyes?
People who sunburn easily are more likely to develop skin cancer. If you have blue eyes, blonde hair, red hair or get freckles in the sun, you are at greater risk and should take even more care to protect your skin from the sun. And remember--90% of all skin cancers occur on parts of the body that are not protected by clothing like your face, ears and hands.

When Is the Sun Most Dangerous?
In  sunny climates you are at the greatest risk for sunburn and need the most sun protection between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you happen to be outside on one of NYCs' cloudy days, don't think you are safe from the sun! Up to 80% of the ultraviolet rays of the sun that burn you are getting through those clouds.

Is It Safer To Tan in a Tanning Booth?
No. Doctor Rothfeld says that  the UVB and UVA radiation from sun lamps and other tanning devices can be dangerous.

What Else Can I Do To Protect Myself?
It is very important to check your skin regularly to see if you notice any changes in your skin. See your doctor if you notice any changes in moles you might have or if a sore on your skin does not heal.

The Four Warning Signs of Cancer
These "ABCD" guidelines are commonly used to help you be aware of the warning signs of cancer:
A is for Asymmetry--one half of a mole is different than the other.
B is for Border irregularity--mole has poorly defined edges.
C is for Color variations--inconsistent colors on the mole.
D is for Diameter--larger than a pencil eraser.

At any of these signs you should see your Board Certified Dermatologist at NYC Dermatology Dr. Gary Rothfeld.

Will I Die If I Get Skin Cancer?
There are 3 types of skin cancer:

  • Basal cell carcinoma is the most common and it is likely that your doctor can cure it.

  • Squamous cell carcinoma, if detected early, can be cured.

  • Melanoma is the worst and could result in death. With a family history of melanoma, you could get it even if you've never been out in the sun.

A Healthy Suntan!
There's really no such thing says Dr. Rothfeld , NYC Skin Doctor. It may look good now, but spending too much time in the sun without sun protection and burning your skin will, at best, age your skin prematurely, and at worst, lead you down the path to skin cancer. Next time you see someone who looks fair and pale, admire her! She is caring for her skin, and she'll be healthier for it in the long run.

 

    You should have Dr. Gary Rothfeld, Board Certified Dermatologist at NYC Skin Doctor Institute check any suspicious skin markings and any changes in the way your skin looks. Treatment is more likely to work well when skin cancer is found early. If not treated, some types of skin cancer cells can spread to other tissues and organs.

    National Cancer Institute

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    NYC Dermatology - Manhattan Dermatology - Skin Institute of New York - Skin Cancer Doctor- NYC Cosmetic Dermatology-  Cosmetic Dermatological Surgery - New York City - Board Certified Dermatologist

    Manhattan Office 

     Dr. Gary Rothfeld
    NYC Dermatology - Board Certified Dermatologist - New York, NY
    30 E. 60th St. Ste. 805
    Manhattan, New York 10022
    212.644.9494
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    The purpose of this website is to both educate current patients and to attract new patients. Please note that the information on this website is not intended as medical advice. For questions about how to treat your illnesses, please consult your dermatologist or physician. In addition, please note that, unless you are a current patient, our office cannot, by law, give medical advice over the telephone or the internet.     

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