Skin Screening Specialist

What is an annual skin screening?

An annual skin screening involves a thorough examination of your skin from head to toe, enabling Dr. Harris to evaluate any issues, like cancer, eczema, or psoriasis, that could be affecting the health of your skin and overall health. It's 1 of the most important, proactive, preventive steps you can take to maintain your overall health at any age. It’s also a chance to discuss cosmetic procedures with Dr. Harris. If you’ve been considering a procedure, your annual screening is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the variety of treatments than can improve the appearance and condition of your skin.

I use sunscreen and examine my skin myself; do I still need an annual screening?

Yes. Sunscreen is effective in helping prevent the occurrence of skin cancer, but other factors also contribute to your risk, including childhood exposure and genetics. Plus, even the most vigilant person may not apply sunscreen correctly or reapply it often enough, leaving your skin exposed more often than you realize. Skin cancer screenings are also important because they enable professional evaluation of areas that are difficult for self-examination. Dr. Harris is skilled in identifying skin cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages, identifying subtle changes that can be easily overlooked during a self-exam.

What happens during a screening exam?

Before the exam itself, Dr. Harris asks you about your health, including any issues you may have noticed, like the appearance of new lesions, freckles, moles, or changes in moles or freckles. During the exam, Dr. Harris examines your skin from head to toe to look for concerning signs that could indicate skin cancer. When a suspicious lesion is identified, he takes a very small skin sample or biopsy for further evaluation. Dr. Harris also discusses your skin care habits, including proper use of sunscreen and moisturizer, and recommends follow-up treatments when needed to ensure your skin stays as healthy as possible.