Protect your skin with regular exams at Paradise Dermatology. Skin exams are essential for detecting early signs of skin issues, like new or changing moles, persistent itching, unusual spots, or rough patches. Our experienced dermatologists provide thorough evaluations, helping you maintain healthy, vibrant skin and catch potential concerns early.
Check Your Skin for Abnormalities
Skin exams in Sarasota are comprehensive evaluations performed by a dermatologist to check your skin for any signs of abnormalities, including skin cancer, unusual growths, or concerning changes in moles. During the exam, a dermatologist thoroughly inspects your skin from head to toe to identify potential issues early. Regular skin checks are especially recommended if you have a history of sun exposure, fair skin, or a family history of skin cancer. At Paradise Dermatology, our skilled team provides meticulous skin exams, helping you maintain skin health by detecting issues before they progress.
Skin Exams Can Identify:
- Early signs of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma
- Changes in moles, such as asymmetry, irregular borders, color variations, or size increase
- Precancerous lesions that may develop into skin cancer if untreated
- Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea in early stages
- Damage from sun exposure, such as age spots or fine lines
- Signs of acne and acne scarring requiring targeted treatment
- Unusual skin growths, such as cysts or lipomas
- Skin infections, including fungal or bacterial infections
- Vascular irregularities, like broken capillaries or spider veins
- Benign but bothersome skin lesions, like warts or skin tags
- Other chronic skin conditions
What Happens During a Skin Exam in Sarasota?
During a skin exam in Sarasota, your dermatologist will begin by discussing any specific concerns or skin changes you’ve noticed. You’ll be asked to wear a gown, allowing for a full-body examination in a private, comfortable setting. Using a dermatoscope—a specialized tool with magnification and light—your dermatologist carefully examines each area of your skin, focusing on any unusual moles, spots, or textures. They may also check common sun-exposed areas, like your face, neck, arms, and hands, for signs of damage or irregularities.
If your dermatologist identifies an area of concern, they may perform a biopsy. This involves numbing the area and removing a small skin sample for further analysis to determine if it’s benign or potentially cancerous. Your sample is sent to a specialized lab for analysis, where it’s examined under a microscope. Once the results are ready, your dermatologist will discuss them with you and outline any necessary next steps, whether it’s additional treatment, further monitoring, or surgical removal if needed.
You Should Consider Skin Exams If:
- You have not had a skin exam in over a year
- You have a personal or family history of skin cancer
- You notice any new or changing moles, spots, or skin growths
- You have fair skin, light hair, or a tendency to burn easily
- You spend a significant amount of time in the sun or use tanning beds
- You have numerous moles or freckles on your body
- You experience persistent itching, bleeding, or non-healing sores
- You see signs of sun damage, like age spots or rough patches
- You have a history of immune system disorders or take immunosuppressive medications
Skin Exams FAQs
How Often Should I Have a Skin Exam?
For most people, annual skin exams are recommended to catch any potential issues early. However, if you have a history of skin cancer, a large number of moles, or a family history of melanoma, your dermatologist may suggest more frequent exams. Regular exams help establish a baseline for your skin and allow your dermatologist to monitor any changes
What Should I Expect to Wear During a Skin Exam?
You’ll be asked to change into a medical gown to ensure a thorough examination of your entire body, from scalp to toes. This allows the dermatologist to check areas that are often overlooked but can still show signs of skin issues.
Do Skin Exams Hurt?
Skin exams are painless. Your dermatologist will visually inspect your skin, and while they may use a dermatoscope for magnification, this doesn’t involve any discomfort. If a biopsy is needed, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area so you’ll feel minimal discomfort.
Can I Do My Own Skin Exam at Home?
While a dermatologist’s exam is essential for a professional evaluation, you can check your skin at home between visits. Self-exams help you become familiar with your skin so that you can detect new or changing moles, spots, or growths. If you notice any changes, you should contact your dermatologist to schedule an exam.
Schedule Your Consultation for a
Skin Exam in Sarasota
Paradise Dermatology is dedicated to helping you protect your skin and maintain optimal health with comprehensive skin exams in Sarasota, Florida. Our expert dermatologists thoroughly evaluate your skin, identifying potential issues early to prevent future complications. With personalized care and a patient-first approach, we focus on preserving your skin’s health and vitality. Schedule a consultation for a skin exam with our Sarasota team today.
