July is UV Safety Month, and while you may be great about applying sunscreen at the beach, what about your everyday habits? What about that small freckle on your shoulder you’ve been meaning to get checked? Or the sunscreen bottle that expired last summer but still lives in your glove compartment?
Skin cancer doesn’t arrive with flashing lights. It’s quiet. It’s slow. And sometimes, it looks just like a harmless spot you’ve had for years. At WellMedica, we believe education is the first line of defense against skin cancer and premature aging. This month, we’re breaking down the truth about sun exposure, skin checks, and why now is the time to take your skin health seriously.
What Is UV Safety Month?
UV Safety Month is a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation and the importance of year-round sun protection. While most people associate sun damage with obvious burns, UV exposure can quietly damage the skin’s DNA over time, leading to discoloration, wrinkles, and most critically, skin cancer.
Skin Cancer Doesn’t Wait. Neither Should You.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma can all start as small, easily overlooked changes to your skin. A spot that darkens, bleeds, itches, or changes shape could be more than a cosmetic concern.
That’s why an annual skin exam is not optional, it’s essential. Early detection can mean the difference between a simple in-office treatment and life-threatening complications. At WellMedica, our dermatology experts offer comprehensive mole checks in Reston, VA, designed to catch potential problems early and give you peace of mind.
What Happens During a Mole Check?
A full-body mole check is a non-invasive, thorough evaluation of your skin from head to toe. Dr. Dima uses professional lighting and dermatoscopic tools to examine moles, freckles, and any new or changing spots. She looks for asymmetry, irregular borders, color variation, diameter, and any evolution in size or shape, all key signs of potentially cancerous changes.
If we find something concerning, we can often biopsy it right away or schedule a follow-up for further evaluation. The entire process is quick, painless, and can literally save your life.
Not All Sunscreens Are Equal
Even if you’re religious about applying SPF, you may not be as protected as you think. Many drugstore sunscreens don’t block both UVA and UVB rays, and most people forget to reapply every two hours or after sweating or swimming. Worse, many products break down in the heat or are expired by the time they’re used.
Sun protection tips that actually work:
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating
- Don’t rely on makeup with SPF, it’s not enough
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
- Stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest
- Don’t skip cloudy days, UV rays can still cause damage
Exclusive July Offer: Half Off Full Body Mole Checks
In honor of UV Safety Month, WellMedica is offering 50% off full-body mole checks all month long. This is your chance to take control of your skin health, get expert advice, and catch any issues before they become serious.
Don’t wait for something to look suspicious. Prevention is always easier than treatment.
Protect Your Glow, Protect Your Health
You only get one skin. Treat it like it matters. Annual skin exams and smart sun protection habits are not just cosmetic, they’re life-saving. Whether you’ve noticed a new spot or haven’t had a check in years, now is the time.
Schedule your mole check in Reston, VA today and take advantage of our limited-time July offer. Call (703) 787-9866 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dima today.
