Skin cancer is, in essence, the out-of-control growth of abnormal skin cells that is most often caused by unrepaired DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays. While this condition is common, it’s also highly treatable when caught early. At Ariel Ostad MD, we’re dedicated to helping our patients stay informed, vigilant, and proactive when it comes to skin cancer prevention and treatment. In this post, we’ll break down what to look for, how we treat it, and the steps you can take to protect your skin every day.

The Importance of Early Skin Cancer Screening

Early detection saves lives. Routine skin cancer screening is one of the most powerful tools we have to catch abnormalities before they become more serious. Our skin is the body’s largest organ, yet it’s easy to overlook small changes in the skin when we’re busy with daily life.

We recommend performing self-checks regularly and scheduling professional skin exams at least once a year, especially if you have risk factors like fair skin, a history of sunburns, or a family history of skin cancer. During your exam at Ariel Ostad MD, we check for unusual moles, lesions, or spots that might signal early warning signs. If something looks suspicious, we can biopsy it right away to get the answers you need.

Types of Skin Cancer We Treat

Not all skin cancers are the same, and knowing which type you have helps us choose the best treatment. The most common forms include:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer. It often appears as a pearly bump or sore that doesn’t heal.
  
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Often looks like a scaly red patch or growth that may bleed or crust.
  
• Melanoma: Less common but more serious. Melanoma can develop in an existing mole or as a new dark spot. Early detection is crucia

With proper skin lesion removal and the right treatment plan, many patients see excellent outcomes.

Why Mohs Surgery May Be Recommended

When treating certain skin cancers, especially on delicate or visible areas like the face, we often recommend Mohs Surgery. This precise technique removes skin cancer layer by layer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

At Ariel Ostad MD, Mohs Surgery is performed with meticulous care. The advantage of this surgical option is that we examine each layer under a microscope during your visit. This ensures that all cancerous cells are removed while sparing surrounding healthy skin. For many patients, this means a smaller scar and a higher cure rate.

Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Skin

Alongside routine screening and early treatment, prevention remains your best line of defense. Simple steps make a huge difference, including:

• Wear sunscreen daily — Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
  
• Limit sun exposure — Seek shade during peak hours and wear protective clothing and hats.
  
• Avoid tanning beds — Artificial UV light causes the same DNA damage as the sun.
  
• Know your skin — Pay attention to new spots or changes in existing moles, and bring them to our attention promptly.

Our goal is not only to treat skin cancer but also to empower you with knowledge and healthy habits that protect you for years to come.

When to Reach Out for Help

If you notice a spot that looks new, changes in shape or color, or doesn’t heal as expected, don’t wait. Early diagnosis makes treatment simpler and outcomes far better. Whether you need a routine skin cancer screening, a precise Mohs Surgery plan, or trusted skin lesion removal, we’re here to guide you with expert care and compassionate support.

At Ariel Ostad MD, your skin’s health and your peace of mind come first. Call us at 212‑517‑7900, or reach out through our online contact form to schedule your screening today. Together, we can help protect what’s healthy and treat what’s not, so you can move forward with confidence and clear skin.