When to see a dermatologist about a skin change
As a dermatologist, I get a lot of questions about skin changes, what they mean and what to do about them.
Being aware of changes to your skin is important. In some cases, these skin changes could be skin cancers, including a particularly dangerous type of skin cancer called melanoma.
But, for many, it isn't always immediately obvious whether a skin change is harmless or cause for alarm.
That's why I'm sharing my...
5-time cancer survivor: Dual diagnoses led me to MD Anderson
The first time I had cancer, I was in my late 20s. What I thought was a persistent zit on my nose turned out to be basal cell carcinoma. I...
How can you tell if a mole is cancerous?
Maybe a new spot catches your eye while you’re drying off from your shower. Or maybe the spot you swear used to be flat has suddenly started...
What SPF should I use?
Sunscreen helps protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. But which SPF is best?
UT MD Anderson dermatologists recommend sunscreen that is at least SPF 30, broad-spectrum and water resistant. Even with those guidelines, there are plenty of options to choose from. They may even prompt questions like, “If SPF 30 is good, does that mean SPF 50 or even SPF 100 is better?”
I always like to remind patients that sunscreen...
What to expect when you have a mole removed
Moles are common growths on the skin. Moles are benign, which means they’re not cancerous. But when melanocytes, the cells that make up moles...
Need a punch biopsy? Here’s what to expect
As a dermatologist, I examine skin all day, every day. If I see something concerning on your skin, I may perform a punch biopsy to learn more...
5 things to know about raised moles
When people talk about moles, they are usually referring to a variety of skin growths, including true moles — which are also called nevi —...
Stage IV melanoma survivor: Dark skin won’t protect you from skin cancer
I’ve always been aware of my body. So, when something goes awry, I follow up. Any time I notice something unusual, or just don’t feel quite...
Four-time cancer survivor: Why I’m glad I went to MD Anderson
I am probably the luckiest unlucky person you will ever meet. I was diagnosed with four different types of cancer between 2016 and 2020. And...
Pregnancy-related skin changes or skin cancer? How to tell the difference
Body changes are a normal, expected part of pregnancy for most women. In addition to a growing belly, you can also experience changes to your...