How Does Skin Cancer Develop?
Skin cancer develops when the DNA in skin cells becomes damaged and mutates in a way that prevents normal regulation of cell growth. The primary culprit behind this damage is ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which comes from the sun as well as artificial sources like tanning beds. Over time, repeated UV exposure causes changes in the skin’s DNA, especially in cells called keratinocytes and melanocytes, which can eventually evolve into basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma—the three major types of skin cancer.
What are the Risk Factors for Skin Cancer?
While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors increase your risk: fair skin, a history of sunburns, excessive sun exposure, weakened immune system, and family or personal history of skin cancers. Skin cancers often begin as subtle changes in the skin—a new spot, a changing mole, or a non-healing sore. Early detection is critical, especially with melanoma, which can be aggressive. We recommend annual full-body screening with a dermatologist, especially in those with lighter skin tones.
How Can I Prevent Skin Cancer?
One of the most effective ways to prevent skin cancer is consistent, daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen. Broad-spectrum means the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays—both of which can cause cellular damage. We recommend sunscreens with an SPF of 50 or higher, and they should be reapplied every two hours when outdoors. Along with sunscreen, physical barriers like wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective clothing, and seeking shade.
How Do We Treat Sun Damage & Skin Cancer at Esslinger Medical and Aesthetics?
Lasers can play several roles in both treatment and prevention, though their role in skin cancer is highly selective. Ablative lasers (like CO₂ or Er:YAG) can sometimes be used to treat actinic keratoses, which are precancerous lesions caused by sun damage. In some cases, these lasers may also be used adjunctively to treat superficial basal or squamous cell carcinoma when surgery isn’t suitable. Laser treatments work by precisely removing damaged or abnormal tissue while stimulating healthy skin regeneration.
Non-ablative lasers (like LaseMD Ultra and ICON 1540) and intense pulsed light (IPL) are not curative for cancer but can help reverse sun damage, reduce pigmentation, and improve the overall health and appearance of the skin. By maintaining healthier skin, we may reduce the risk of future mutations and encourage earlier detection of problematic changes. Our LaseMD Ultra laser has been clinically shown to reduce the risk of skin cancers on the face by up to 40%.
If you are at high risk for skin cancer, let us guide you on the path to healthier skin. It’s never too late to start prevention, even after years of sun exposure. We’ll start with a medical-grade mineral sunscreen, and then develop a plan to reduce the damage and lower your risk.
Key treatments:
- LaseMD Ultra
- ICON 1540 fractional laser
