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Skin Cancer Specialist Augusta, GA

The skin is not only the body's largest organ, but one of its most important. Your skin helps regulate your body temperature, fight infections, and externally protects your body. Everyone's skin's sensitivity differs, but if you spend a lot of time in the sun or if your family has a history of malignant melanoma, you need to have regularly scheduled appointments with a skin cancer specialist. Augusta, GA, residents come to Harmonie Medical for all their dermatological needs.

The Skin

The skin is the body's largest organ. It protects against heat, light, injury, and infection. It helps control body temperature. It stores water and fat. The skin also makes vitamin D.

 

The skin has two main layers:

Epidermis

The epidermis is the top layer of the skin. It is mostly made of flat cells. These are squamous cells. Under the squamous cells in the deepest part of the epidermis are round cells called basal cells. Cells called melanocytes make the pigment (color) found in skin and are located in the lower part of the epidermis.

 

Dermis

The dermis is under the epidermis. It contains blood vessels, lymph vessels, and glands. Some of these glands make sweat, which helps cool the body. Other glands make sebum. Sebum is an oily substance that helps keep the skin from drying out. Sweat and sebum reach the surface of the skin through tiny openings called pores.

Since its inception in 1979, The Skin Cancer Foundation has always recommended using a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher as one important part of a complete sun protection regimen. Sunscreen alone is not enough, however. Read our full list of skin cancer prevention tips.

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  • Seek the shade, especially between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M.

  • Do not burn.

  • Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths.

  • Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day.

  • Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours.

  • Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

  • Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.

  • Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.

  • See your physician every year for a professional skin exam.

 

If you are in need or a routine check-up, or looking for a new dermatologist, or even a skin cancer specialist, Augusta, GA, men, women and children are invited to come to Harmonie Medical for consultation, education and treatment.

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