Skin Cancer Prevention

Of all types of cancer, skin cancer is the most common. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 5 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year in the US. Dr. W. Trent Massengale and Dr. Joshua Pitre of Atlas Dermatology can help if you're concerned about skin cancer in Baton Rouge or Prairieville, LA.

Too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure can permanently damage the skin but there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself. Keep reading about preventing skin cancer and come see us to keep your skin in great health!

Minimize your sun exposure

Pay attention to how much time you spend out in the sun to prevent skin cancer. Getting some sunlight every day is still good for you! It's over-exposure to UV rays that can be harmful to your skin. The sun's rays are strongest in the middle of the day, between 10 am and 4 pm, so seek shade in those hours. Be extra cautious around water, snow, and sand. They reflect and intensify the sun rays, increasing your chances of sunburn.

You should also be practicing skincare every day to combat skin cancer in Baton Rouge, LA. Keep reading for more about the importance of sunscreen.

Protect your skin

Applying sunscreen is imperative when you are spending time outside. Broad-spectrum sunscreen blocks UVA and UVB rays to help protect your skin. Sunscreen should be reapplied liberally every two hours to be effective. Using lip balm with UV protection also helps protect some of your most delicate skin.

Choose your clothing carefully when you're going to be outside. UV rays are strongest in the middle of the day and in the spring and summer months, but they are always present so keep your skin covered. Long-sleeved clothing and wide-brim hats help protect your face and skin, and sunglasses with a UV protection shield your eyes. There is a lot of clothing now that is made to be lightweight and still protect you from UV rays so you can be comfortable.

Even when you apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing, you should limit your time in the sunlight to prevent skin cancer in Baton Rouge, LA. Dr. W. Trent Massengale and Dr. Joshua Pitre of Atlas Dermatology are proud to serve you at two locations in Baton Rouge, LA, and Prairieville, LA. Contact us for an appointment at (225) 313-4560.

Our Two Locations

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-12:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed