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Are the Sun’s UV Rays Really Stronger on Cloudy Days? Fact or Myth?

 

Many people have experienced a sunburn while being outdoors on an overcast day. Is this simply the result of not being as aware of the sun’s damage, and not applying sunscreen at all or as frequently as directed? Or could the sun’s rays actually be stronger on cloudy days? Let’s explore this further…

What is a UV Ray?

There are many types of light invisible to the naked eye, such as x-rays, microwaves, gamma rays, and UV rays, otherwise known as ultraviolet light. These UV rays can be found in man-made products such as tanning beds and welding torches, but they also originate naturally from the sun.

Due to the inability to see these lights, some individuals underestimate their potential to harm. UV rays from the sun are a form of electromagnetic radiation, making their way to the ground as either UV-A or UV-B rays. Even though UV-B rays have greater potency, each type of ray is responsible for harm caused to our skin. Awful sunburns and the production of vitamin D are the results of UV-B rays.

Do cloudy days really create stronger UV Rays?

Many people have heard the claim that UV Rays are stronger on cloudy days, but often this thought is disregarded entirely as a myth. It is unquestionable that human skin can get a sunburned on cloudy days, but are the UV rays actually stronger?

The UV Index is directly proportional to the intensity of radiation one will receive during a particular time of the day and year. Clouds can block up to 70-90% of these UV-B rays during times of extreme overcast. If, however, the forecast presents itself as “partly cloudy,” the situation is entirely different. A term coined as the ‘broken cloud effect’ reveals that certain clouds can actually create higher UV levels than a perfectly cloudless day. When compared with completely clear skies, studies have shown that partially cloudy skies have raised the UV-B rays by 25% and increased DNA damage up to 40%!

So yes! Cloudy days can actually be more dangerous for your skin!

How does this happen?

Although scientists do not have a concrete answer, they have few ideas surrounding this phenomenon. The first explanation is the fact that dense clouds may reflect UV rays, which in turn send them back down to the earth’s surface.

The second theory is the idea of UV rays being redirected as they pass through thin wisp-like clouds. The combination of refraction and reflecting between varying clouds is resulting in a significantly greater UV strength at ground level.

Complicating matters…

On a cloudy day the sun doesn’t feel as hot as it does on a clear day. As a result, it is natural to neglect the application and/or reapplication of sunscreen. Just because you aren’t feeling the heat from the sun, doesn’t mean the UV Rays are not doing damage. Anytime you are outdoors for any period of time – regardless of how sunny it is – you should be protecting your skin with sunscreen. And as it turns out, even more so on those cloudy days!

Get Your Skin Checked Regularly

Dr Gurgen is a dermatologist in The Villages and Leesburg Florida, specializing in skin cancer treatment and Mohs Surgery. It is important to perform regular skin checks yourself and visit a dermatologist every year – especially here in Florida. If you notice changes to your skin or if it is time for your annual skin check, contact our office for an appointment.

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Steps to Keep Your Skin Safe in the Sun

 

Getting UV radiation from the sun isn’t always as obvious as the unpleasant sunburn that comes with it. Oftentimes, you are receiving sunlight damage unknowingly. This can happen when you are walking the dog or even the small journey to retrieve mail from the end of your driveway. Sun damage accumulates over time and repeatedly affects the skin when you don’t know it, like on a cloudy day as it permeates through the clouds or bounces off snow, sand, or water.

In order to protect you and your skin entirely, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that you take the following precautions:

Pursue time in the shade.

The sun’s rays are most intense between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these peak hours, shade can be a hideaway. It is not necessary to spend these hours completely out of the sun, but making the decision to use an awning or an umbrella, walk on the shady side of the road, or make use of a covered porch or shady tree could be beneficial for your skin’s health, especially in the long run.

Unfortunately, shade isn’t going to protect your skin entirely in these circumstances. UV rays still have the ability to pass through branches or leaves and can reflect off other surfaces around you, and therefore can still affect your skin even in the shade.

Avoid sunburns.

Not only are sunburns uncomfortable and eventually create the appearance of leathery wrinkled skin, but they greatly increase your risk of skin cancer. If absorbed properly and not in excess, the sun can feel good and can actually sustain life providing much needed vitamin D. However, it is important to use sun protection to reduce your risk of skin damage. Not only should you use sunscreen on big days at the beach or long ball games, but also when walking the dog and other smaller excursions in the sun.

Avoid tanning, and never use UV tanning beds.

Every time a person uses a tanning bed or booth, it increases their risk of developing every type of skin cancer. Statistics show that if you use artificial tanning before the age of 35, it can increase your risk of melanoma by 75 percent.

Although some states have laws in place to protect minors by prohibiting their use of tanning facilities, other states do not.  It can be very tempting for a teenager and many adults to act on that desire for a golden tan. But, it is more important to remember how damaging tanning beds are for your skin.

Cover up with clothing and accessories.

The protection that sunscreen offers can wear off over time, but clothing and other accessories do not. Clothing can provide a great shield between you and the sun’s rays. In fact, certain clothing is made with special fabric to provide high-tech protection while also allowing your skin to breath. A wide brim hat is also recommended because it helps cover your eyes, ears, face and neck. UV sunglasses are also made to shield your eyes from the sun. Long sleeves, pants and high neck clothing is also suggested to protect other areas of your body.

Clothing with the label “UPF,” have an extra protector factor built into the fabric for defense against the sun and can be very beneficial. Often these items also have a number indicating just how much sun will be able to penetrate through the clothing. For example, if a label reads, “UPF 50,” it means that 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation will actually reach your skin. However, there is going to be some exposed skin with any type of clothing. Because of this, it is important to apply and reapply sunscreen throughout periods of long exposure to the sun.

Decide what sunscreen is appropriate.

When participating in activities that cause an excessive amount of sweat or submersion in water, it is essential to reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours. You should also apply sunscreen 30 minutes before you go into the sun, preferably with an SPF of 30 or higher. It is advisable to use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen when partaking in outdoor activities for extended periods of time. And, even when there is no water or physical activity (sweating) involved it is important to re-apply your sunscreen every 3-4 hours.

Protect babies from the sun’s harmful rays.

Rather than applying sunscreen to a newborn’s fresh, sensitive skin, it is best to just keep them out of the sun or use alternative methods for protection. Ensure that the baby’s arms and legs, head and eyes are covered. For toddlers, you can take the same preventative clothing methods mentioned for adults along with the same application of sunscreen.

Examine your skin every month and visit a dermatologist annually.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that you self-examine your skin every month and see your dermatologist every year. The strongest defense against the sun and skin cancer is the use of sunscreen from a young age and throughout life. However, 1 in 5 Americans still develop skin cancer by the age of 70, so it is important to keep an eye out for anything suspicious even if you take all of the preventative measures. To know what to look for see our articles, “Early Detection of Skin Cancer – What to Look For” and “Types of Skin Cancer”.

Dr. Gurgen is one of the top skin cancer doctors in the country. He has dermatology clinics located in The Villages and Leesburg Florida. Contact us today to schedule your annual skin examination.

 

 

Are All Sunscreens the Same?

 

Sunscreen Myths and Facts

Not only are sunburns not the best look for an individual and cause immediate pain, but they also increase a person’s risk of skin cancer. The main cause of skin cancer is sun exposure due to ultraviolet light. The UV light from the sun damages the genetic material of our skin and causes Melanoma. Every time an individual gets a bad sun burn it increases this risk. In fact, four to five sunburns doubles your chance of getting skin cancer!

There are a lot of myths involved with sunscreen and this blog is to inform individuals of the various myths misleading people every time they expose themselves to the sun.

Myth #1: Higher SPF doesn’t work better

The first and most common myth is the idea that higher levels of SPF don’t provide greater protection. Although, 90 SPF does in fact protect your skin to a greater degree than 30 SPF would, it is not three times more protection. SPF 90 provides 99% protection versus SPF 30 with 96%. Although research has shown that it isn’t a substantial difference for each individual use, the impact of using a higher SPF over many years can add up to a considerable difference.

Myth #2: All sunscreens work the same way.

Additionally, the idea that all sunscreens work the same way is also a myth. Different sunscreens contain a variety of ingredients. For example, some sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium oxide, which are used as physical sun blocks defending against both UVA and UBV rays. Other sunscreens contain avobenzone- which works by absorbing the rays, rather than blocking, and converting them to energy that is less damaging to the skin. The controversy on which ingredients are more effective is a common debate among dermatologists.

Myth 3: A little sunscreen in the morning will last throughout the day.

The idea that a little amount of sunscreen is effective for the entire day is another myth. It is crucial to remember to reapply lotion throughout the day to ensure less harm to the skin. It is recommended that you apply every 2 hours – more if you are in a pool or water.

Myth 4: Last year’s sunscreen is just as effective.

Another common mistake is thinking that sunscreen lasts forever. However, sunscreen does expire and it is important to check the expiration date to ensure that the lotion is still entirely effective. Plus, some sunscreens break down quickly so you shouldn’t let them sit around the house for too long.

Leesburg & Lady Lake Dermatology and Mohs Surgery

If you have concerns about your skin, Dr. Gurgen’s Dermatology Clinic in The Villages and Leesburg provide skin checks as well as the most effective treatment for skin cancer from an award-winning Mohs Surgeon.

Contact us today.

 

 

Early Detection of Skin Cancer – What to Look For

Living in Central Florida it is especially important to pay attention to your skin’s health. The sun’s UV radiation is stronger here than many other areas of the United States. And, with our pleasant climate, we tend to spend more time outside year around. For these reasons, it is smart to perform monthly self-examinations and see your dermatologist every year for an annual skin check.

Perform Monthly Skin Self-Examinations

The Skin Cancer Foundation actively encourages everyone to practice monthly head-to-toe self-examination of their skin. You should look for any new or changing lesions that might be cancerous or precancerous. When skin cancers is identified and removed early it is almost always curable. Even if you wear sunscreen regularly or are seldom in the sun, it’s important to check your skin often for any notable changes.

Of course for this to be effective, you obviously need to know what you’re looking for.  As a general rule, take note of any new moles or growths or any existing growths that have grown or changed. Lesions that have changed, itch, or bleed are also warning signs that you should consult with a dermatologist.

To encourage early detection of melanoma, a skin cancer that can be life threatening, physicians have developed two specific strategies to help the Average Joe know what to look for – “The ABCDEs” and “The Ugly Duckling”.

The ABCDEs

A – Asymmetry: Typical moles are not asymmetrical. In other words, if you draw a line through the middle the two sides will match. If your mole is asymmetrical (not even on both sides), this is a warning sign for melanoma.

B – Border:  Regular moles have smooth, even borders. The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven, often scalloped or notched.

C – Color:  Typical moles are usually all one color, most frequently a single shade of brown. Having a variety of colors is another warning signal. A variety of different shades of brown, tan or black could be cause for concern. A melanoma may also become red, white or even blue.

D –  Diameter:  Normal moles tend to be smaller. Melanomas are typically larger in diameter than the eraser on your pencil tip. Keep in mind melanomas may be smaller when first detected. Which leads us to…

E – Evolving:  Common moles look the same over time, with little change. Be on the alert when a mole changes or evolves in any way. This would include any change in size, shape, or color. Also, if the mole has changed and now feels “raised”, or is bleeding, itching or crusting, this points to danger. When a mole has changed in any way since your last self-exam, you should see a dermatologist to be safe.

The Ugly Duckling

In the late 1990s, scientists began to realize that on the same individual, skin lesions that are not dangerous tend to look similar. Melanomas often deviate from this pattern. This realization pointed to the importance of not just looking at the individual lesion in question, but also comparing it to surrounding lesions, looking for an “outlier” in an area of similar-appearing moles. For example, the outlier lesion might be larger or darker than the surrounding moles (Figure A). Or just the opposite, the outlier mole could be small and red surrounded by large dark moles (Figure B). Finally, if the patient has only a few or no other moles, any changing lesion should be considered suspicious (Figure C). These 3 scenarios display outlier lesions or “ugly ducklings”, and should prompt suspicion. If any “ugly duckling” lesion is changing, symptomatic, or deemed atypical, it should be seen by a dermatologist as soon as possible.

Performed regularly, self-examination can identify changes to your skin and is your best chance for the early detection of skin cancer. It should be done often enough that it becomes a habit. For most people, once a month is ideal. But if you have a history of skin cancer or pre-cancerous growths, your dermatologist may recommend more frequent checks. Many people find it helpful to keep notes or even a chart of any moles or lesions that are concerning, so if any changes occur. After the first few times, self-examination should take no more than 10 minutes – a small investment in what could be a life-saving procedure.

Schedule Annual Visits to Your Dermatologist

It is important to have a dermatologist do a full-body exam at least once each year. First, to assure you that any spots, freckles, or moles that you have noticed during your self-exams are normal. Second, to treat any lesions that may be dangerous as soon as possible. Finally, to detect or identify any spots you may have missed.

If you are new to the Central Florida area, are looking for a dermatologist in The Villages or Leesburg Florida areas, or have noticed a lesion that appears abnormal, please contact our office for a consultation.

Skin Care Over 60

Skin Care Over 60 - Dr. Johnny Gurgen

The right skin care can help your skin feel less dry and irritated.

When we are in our 60s and 70s, there are many changes our skin goes through – but you don’t have to live with these changes.

How skin can change in your 60s and 70s

Everyone’s skin is different, but many people begin to notice the following changes to their skin:

  • Drier
  • Thinner and starting to look paper-like
  • Itchy
  • Developing more age spots, wrinkles, and creases
  • Blotchier
  • Irritated easily
  • More susceptible to skin infections
  • Bruising more easily
  • Sweating less
  • Healing more slowly

Here are a few basic skin care alterations recommended by Dr. Gurgen…

Bath Habits that will relieve dry skin. 

·         NO bar soap. Replace it with a gentle, creamy cleanser or emollient. Fragrance-free is best.

·         NO hot showers or baths. Hot water strips away our skin’s natural oils, increasing skin dryness.

·         NO loofa pads or buff puffs. These items can irritate your skin.  

·         Shorten Your shower or bath. When you bathe, keep it around 10-minutes. You also may find that you don’t need a bath every day.

·         Don’t dry off completely. Some water on the skin when you moisturize will help hydrate your skin.

·         Moisturize! A creamy, fragrance-free moisturizer for dry skin applied within 3 minutes of your bath or shower. This helps soothe dryness and restore your skin’s protective moisture barrier.

Use a humidifier – especially in the winter when the air is drier. 
Keep indoor humidity 45-60 percent (can be measured by a hydrometer that you can purchase at the hardware store. 

Wear Gloves for housework and gardening. 

While working in your garden and around your house, your hands can be exposed to harsh chemicals, sunlight, and a variety of things that can dry your skin. As a bonus, when you wear gloves you are less likely to injure your skin as well.

Protect your skin from the sun. 

If you’re seeing wrinkles, age spots, and discolored blotchy skin, you may wonder if protecting your skin from the sun is doing any good. In your 60s and 70s, sun protection still offers many benefits. Proper protection from the sun can prevent new age spots and blotchy skin, reduce dryness and thinning skin, and it can reduce your risk of skin cancer.

For Proper Protection from the sun’s harmful rays you should…

·         Apply Sunscreen every day. We recommend a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. This should be applied to all skin that will not be completely covered while outside.

·         Sit in the Shade. Sunscreen cannot block 100% of the sun’s harmful rays, so sit in the shade whenever possible.

·         Wear clothing that protects your skin from the sun. Many garments do not protect your skin from the sun. To find out, hold your clothing up to a bright light. If you cannot see light shining through, it can protect your skin from the sun.

Go fragrance free. 

Perfumes, colognes, and skin care products that contain fragrance can dry and irritate your skin.

Visit a dermatologist for skin cancer exams annually. 

At about 50 years old, the danger of skin cancer and pre-cancerous growths begins to rise at an ever-increasing rate. However, when skin cancer is detected early and removed via Mohs Surgery, that will often be the extent of your treatment. However, if the cancer goes undetected and spreads, treatment becomes much more difficult.

Perform Self Examinations Frequently. Some skin cancer can develop quickly. Learning how to examine your skin for signs of skin cancer may lessen your treatment and may even save your life.


When to Seek a Dermatologist’s Help

While the right skin care can improve your skin’s condition, sometimes it is not enough. Certain medications, the stress of surgery, and other health problems can affect your skin. We understand the effects each of these can have on your skin and can create a treatment plan tailored to specifically to your skin’s needs. We can also help when a product you have used for years no longer seems to be working, or to safely treat changes in your aging skin like age spots and wrinkles.

If you are looking for a Dermatologist in The Villages or Leesburg Florida areas, contact Dr. Gurgen for an appointment.

Dry Lips: Could It Be Cheilitis?

dermatologists in the Villages FL

The lips are the most prominent feature on the face. We don’t have to list the reasons why it’s essential to take care of your lips – so it definitely seems like a problem when the lips are sore, rough, and cracked.

The skin on the lips is thinner, with only 1/3rd of the cellular layers compared to the rest of the human body. There are also no moisturizing sweat glands on the surface of the lips. That’s why even licking your lips can dry them out and cause damage. That’s why it is essential to protect the lips.

With that being said, sometimes, it may seem that no matter how well you try to maintain your lips by slathering on lip balm, they still end up being scaly and itchy. If you are experiencing itchy and chapped lips, it might be a sign of a condition known as “cheilitis.”

Cheilitis may cause an itchy and burning sensation and sometimes pain and can be due to a variety of factors that are either internal or external. The most common reasons for cheilitis are chronic sun exposure, eczema, and infection. It is essential to note that there can be a variety of factors that can co-exist for any person affected by this condition. Irritation, food allergies, fragrances, cosmetics, and even oral hygiene products are the common culprits of cheilitis.

So how can you tell if you have cheilitis?

For evaluating eczematous cheilitis, there would have to be an assessment of atopic diseases, a history of the irritants or allergens you face, and patch testing. Patch testing is a vital component to detect allergic contact cheilitis. Patients who have a negative patch test are diagnosed with irritant contact cheilitis or atopic cheilitis.

So what can you do to prevent or pacify the condition?

  1. Moisturize.
    As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Medicated lip balm can help prevent dry lips from dry air, mouth breathing, and the constant licking of the lips. If the balm has SPF, it can also protect the skin on the lips from harmful UV rays that can dry out the lips further.
  2. Avoid potential allergens.
    The primary method of treatment should be to remove the suspected irritant from the environment the patient is exposed to. Patients should try to avoid using lip balms with flavoring, lanolin, and other potential allergens. Instead, try using medicated lip balms that are simply for dry skin.
  3. Iron dietary supplements.
    The condition cheilitis may arise as a result of an iron deficiency. Iron dietary supplements can help correct the defect and also contribute to the prevention of itchiness and dryness of the lips.
  4. Drink plenty of water.
    Dry lips are commonly caused as a result of dehydration. Make sure to stay hydrated and keep the lips healthy by drinking around eight glasses of water per day.

If your skin condition continues to persist, the help of experienced dermatologists in the Villages FL need to be obtained. Fortunately, one of the best skin care specialists in the state is available to cater to your needs, right in your town – Johnny Gurgen Dermatology. Dr. Gurgen is experienced, professional, and guarantees each patient receive the treatment they need for healthier skin and an improved lifestyle. Are you suffering from a skin condition that just won’t go away? Contact Johnny Gurgen now to schedule an appointment!

5 Questions Every Woman Needs To Ask Her Dermatologist.

Villages dermatology

When you make an appointment with your skin specialist for a visit, it is essential to make the most out of it by asking a set of essential questions. This can include clarifying the changes your skin may experience, how you can treat your acne, and even learning more about the latest forms of skincare technologies.

Following are some general questions that you can ask your dermatologist in order to make sure that you are properly supporting your skin health.

  1. How to monitor moles.

    Early detection of moles is the key to treat melanoma skin cancer effectively. While all moles may not be cancerous, regular people may not be able to know the difference. However, without just depending on your dermatologist to check your moles for cancer, you can also ask your dermatologist to teach you how to monitor your moles at home. Your skin care specialist would be able to tell you about the warning signs to look out for, which could, in turn, save your life.

  2. How damaging is your current diet?

    The food you put into your body is just as important as what products you put on your skin. To have healthy skin, your diet needs to align with the necessities of your skin changes. It is quite apparent about the things you need to avoid, such as greasy, oily, or sugary food. However, since it is nearly impossible for people to avoid these things altogether, they can simply try to consume less or replace the unhealthy food with a healthier substitute which is equally satisfying.

  3. What type of products best suit my skin type?

    It may seem difficult to determine what products are right for your skin without the help of a professional. However, a dermatologist might be able to help you determine what type of specific ingredients to look for in the product you are using or what specific ingredients to avoid in different products. Additionally, get your doctor’s advice on what kind of skin you have, that is another way you may be able to choose the right products for your skin.

  4. What is causing my acne?

    Instead of applying any over-the-counter products you buy at the pharmacy, your dermatologist might be able to help identify the lifestyle factors that are affecting or triggering your acne. If you want to rid yourself of your acne permanently, determining the root cause of the problem is vital.

  5. Is my skin condition what I think it is?

    The worst thing to do as an un-informed patient would be to trying and self-diagnosing yourself through the information you find on the internet. While some websites may provide a platform for an excellent starting point, it can also lead you to misdiagnosis. You can either brush off a huge problem or overreact to a minor one. So, go to your skin care specialist with your thoughts and leave the diagnosis to the professionals.

Skin care problems can be a menace to overcome. However, with the help of a competent skin care professional, you may be able to see significant improvements based on the treatments you obtain. If you’re looking for the best Villages dermatology clinic, Johnny Gurgen Dermatology is the place for you. Dr. Gurgen is one of the best skin care specialists in the state and guarantees each patient receives the right treatment and expertise needed to improve skin health and lifestyle!

4 Tips to Keep In Mind Before Proceeding With Mole Removal Treatment.

dermatologist The Villages FL

Have you been tempted to remove one or a few moles from your face and body? Some people may consider mole removals an exercise that is quite simple. However, mole removal treatments should be taken quite seriously.

A mole is a cluster of skin cells – normally appeared as black or brown and can appear anywhere on the body. Moles typically show up on the body before age 20. Most of the moles that appear on a person’s skin aren’t cancerous. However, it is important to be cautious if the mole looks suspicious. You can also get your mole removed if you feel uncomfortable about the way it looks or feels. It can also be a good idea if it happens to get in the way, such as during shaving. Whatever the reason for you to want to remove your mole, the following are four things to consider before going ahead with the removal treatment.

  1. Always think twice about mole removal.
    Unlike the way removing unwanted hair from your body may be, removing a mole can affect an individual’s overall health in the future. When removing a mole from a person’s body or face, the first thing the specialist would do is removing the color of the mole. This means that any evidence for further diagnosis is removed as well. Once the color has been removed, there would be no further changes in the color and shape of the mole. These signs are what your doctor would be looking for when assessing a mole to make sure that the mole isn’t cancerous.
  2. Skin care specialists and surgeons prefer using day surgery to remove flat moles.
    Removing a mole from the skin of a person isn’t as simple as going for facial laser treatments. Doctors normally prefer removing the mole through a surgical method so they would be able to test the skin for cancer.
  3. Laser treatments can remove moles.
    While laser treatments aren’t commonly used for mole removal, it can still be used for the process. Ablative lasers can be used for raised mole removal. However, this form of treatment isn’t suitable for darker skinned patients who would have to have their moles removed surgically.
  4. More than one session might be needed to remove the mole.
    Unfortunately for patients looking for quick mole removal services, they may actually need several treatment sessions before the mole can completely be removed. A few sessions might be needed to remove a mole with a laser. Ultimately, it depends on how big and raised the mole is.

Whatever option you decide to go with when it comes to mole removal from the skin, it is absolutely essential to make sure you consult with the best possible dermatologist The Villages FL. Since it is your skin, you wouldn’t want to end up with visible scarring or adverse outcomes. Johnny Gurgen Dermatology is one of the best places to visit for your skin care needs. Dr. Gurgen is skilled and experienced in a variety of skin care problems and specialized in Mohs surgery. We Guarantee you receive the best service for a positive outlook and your satisfaction!

Mohs Surgery And Preparation.

dermatologist the villages

Surgery is one of the most commonly used treatments for skin cancer. This is because surgery for skin cancer has one of the highest cure rates. If you are diagnosed with skin cancer, your doctor might discuss the different options for treatment. This may include surgical and non-surgical treatments. However, in most cases, surgery is the most recommended treatment.

Depending on how severe your skin cancer may be, your doctor might recommend Mohs surgery or traditional surgery excision.
In this article, we will discuss Mohs surgery and how you can be prepared for it.

Mohs surgery is a specialized type of surgical excision. During a typical surgical excision, the doctor will inject a local anesthetic into the patient and then remove the tumor and part of the surrounding marginal skin using a scalpel. The skin tissue will then be sent to the lab to ensure all cancerous cells have been removed from the patient’s skin.

However, in Mohs surgery, the surgeon removes the visible part of the tumor and then removes the surrounding skin tissue by each layer. After that, the surgeon then examines the skin to see if all cancer cells are removed. The surgeon then repeats the process until he/she is assured all cancer skin cells are removed.

Preparation

Once you’ve scheduled yourself for your surgery, your surgeon may give you a set of instructions. It is essential to make sure these instructions are thoroughly followed to ensure the best results and your safety.

Before surgery, you may be required to stop any medications or activities that may increase your risk of bleeding.

Doctors would also try to ensure that you stop any herbal medications, smoking, and consumption of alcohol. You are encouraged to eat and bring snacks along since Mohs surgery can take hours to complete.

The doctor may provide you with a set of specific instructions on how to take care of your skin after the surgery. The following instructions would lower your risk of infection and ensure that your wounds would heal faster.

  • Avoid overexertion for 24 to 48 hours after the surgery and try to avoid exercising for at least 2 to 3 weeks.This would ensure that your surgical site heals properly.
  • Try to keep the wound dry and covered for at least 24 hours.
  • Try to wash the wound twice a day with soap and water then apply antibacterial ointments.
  • Avoid consuming alcohol and smoking cigarettes – these activities may reduce the healing process.
  • Once the wound heals, try to avoid exposing the wound to the sun. Exposure to the sun may cause to wound to become more visible and worsen the scar.

Additionally, your doctor may speak to you about a better plan to care for your skin to avoid getting skin cancer in the future. Speaking to the right dermatologist The Villages would help you to be a little more confident on who performs your surgery. If you’re looking for one of the best dermatologists specialized in Mohs Surgery, Johnny Gurgen Dermatology is the place for you. Dr. Gurgen is an award-winning skin care specialist who ensures your skin care needs are fulfilled in the best possible way for optimal outcomes!

How To Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage

dermatologists in the villages FL

Ultraviolet (UV) rays damage the skin. As time goes by, the more exposed you are to these UV rays; the more likely you are to see changes to your skin. This would make your skin look older than you would naturally without this exposure.

The changes you may experience in your skin include:

  • Winkles.
  • Age spots.
  • Spider veins.
  • Loose skin.
  • A blotchy complexion.

If you use tanning beds, there is a higher chance that you’ll notice these changes in a shorter time. This means within a few years you may see wrinkles developed.

The medical term used to describe these changes is “photoaging.” It is also known as premature aging or sun-damaged skin. As the damage starts to build up over time, you may find that your skin starts to develop deep lines or dry and scaly patches. This is known as actinic keratosis which is a pre-cancerous growth. Sun damage has a chance of developing into cancer.

While a lot of the damage caused by the UV rays are permanent, treatment is available to make sure the photoaging can be reduced as significantly as possible. To treat the signs of aging, there is often more than one type of treatment used by board-certified dermatologists. These different forms of treatments are used to treat the different signs of aging. It would also help individuals to develop a natural and healthy appearance to make sure they don’t look like any “work” has been done to their skin.

Although there is treatment available to reduce the signs of aging from the UV rays, it is suggested that you should start protecting your skin from the sun as much as possible. If you use tanning beds, the best thing would be to stop that.

Without the right protection from harmful UV rays, you may experience:

  • Side effects from treatments.
  • The failure to receive the results you seek.
  • A continuation of the damage to the skin.

Using the right protection methods from the sun would also be able to reverse and slow down the signs of aging. To receive the best results from sun protection, you should continue your forms of protection every day.

It is also essential to remember that the results of your treatment depend on the skill and knowledge of the person performing your treatment. When you’re working with a board-certified dermatologist for his/her services, you should look for one who:

  • Has thorough knowledge skin treatments.
    Without an experienced dermatologist, you may see only partial or no results. The right dermatologist would be able to thoroughly analyze your skin to see what treatment would be right for you.
  • Performs the right treatment in a medical office or surgical suite.
    Sanitary services are essential to make sure the procedure is a success.
  • Thoroughly checks your skin for cancer before treating your sun-damaged skin.
    The risk of skin cancer isn’t something to meddle with. Since sun-damaged skin has a risk of being developed into skin cancer it is essential to make sure your skin is checked for cancer. If you’re looking for a competent dermatologist to make sure you receive the best treatment possible o maintain your skin health, Johnny Gurgen Dermatology is the place for you. Dr. Gurgen is one of the best dermatologists in the villages FL. We provide attentive and caring services for all your skin care needs. Contact us now to schedule an appointment.