Many people don’t realize that it is vitally important to take proper care of your skin because it is one of the largest organs in your body. It is believed that just one sunburn is enough to increase the risk of melanoma, one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer. Taking good care of your skin can help you create healthy looking skin and help you become a more attractive version of yourself. These positive changes can occur in other areas of your life such as your career or your personal relationships.

A dermatologist can help you create healthy looking skin in a short period of time. A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in treating disorders related to the skin. They also treat disorders related to the hair, scalp, and nails. It is recommended to visit a dermatologist at least once a year as a preventative measure.

Some of the conditions that require immediate attention from dermatologists are: A wound that won’t heal, or painful varicose veins, or chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, chronic dandruff, or a large mole that changes color or shape.

It’s important to choose board-certified dermatologists when choosing your skin care specialist. A doctor certified by ABMS (American Board of Medical Specialties) is an ideal choice. To confirm your doctor’s certification, visit http://www.ABMS.org or simply call 1-866-ASK-ABMS (275-2267) If you live in a sunny city like Phoenix, it’s important to take care of your skin Cities like Phoenix have year-round sunshine. Ask a Phoenix dermatologist and you’ll know the steps you need to take for skin care. Some of them are described below:

1. Selecting the right sunscreen is vitally important when it comes to protecting your skin from sun damage. Sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher are generally recommended for daily use. However, a typical Phoenix dermatologist recommends SPF 30 or higher for local Phoenix residents.
2. Avoid going outside between 10 am and 2 pm, which is the most dangerous time of the day due to high intensity ultraviolet rays during that time period. Although these are typical business hours, it is important to avoid them as much as possible.
3. Cloudy weather does not block UV rays. People feel very comfortable during the winter months, but they forget that sunburn is a great threat even during the cloudy and winter months.

Approximately 1 million Americans suffer from skin cancer each year. It is completely treatable and preventable. Following the steps above should help you avoid any skin related disorders; however, they are not a substitute for the opinion of a professional.