Do We Really Need Sunscreen in the Winter?

The Answer is—a resounding YES, you need sunscreen. One in five people develop skin cancer, and it doesn’t matter what time of year it is. The reason we hear so much advice on wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and avoiding over sun exposure between 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, is due in large part to the sun’s harmful UV rays during the time when the sun is the highest in the sky. But just because it’s darker, cloudier and cooler, doesn’t mean it’s any safer.

UV radiation has multiple levels; for example, UVC rays are the most harmful to the skin and eyes, but the ozone layer blocks many of the rays. UVA rays play a huge role in causing skin damage and aging. The wavelengths of UVA rays are long and are therefore less harmful than UVB rays. UVB rays are extremely damaging to the skin and eyes and can cause cancer. UVB rays are shorter wavelengths and consequently can even penetrate through glass, so while driving in a car, or sitting by a window at work, the UVB radiation can harm you. It’s best to always protect yourself by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.

But What About My Vitamin D Levels?
Tanning is not a good idea. While experts say 15 minutes of sun exposure a day will increase vitamin D levels, overdoing it is too easy. Don’t make the mistake of not wearing your sunscreen. The best way to get vitamin D is through supplementation and the best way to look bronzed is by a sunless tanning lotion or spray made of natural, chemical-free ingredients.

Get a Skin Check Regularly
There are so many choices and options when it comes to keeping skin healthy and protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Consequently, A small investment of your time can help save your life. On average skin cancer screenings take about fifteen minutes. These few minutes of your time can potentially prolong years to the health of your skin and life.

Skin Cancer Treatment
Basal cell and Squamous cell carcinoma are both common non-melanoma skin cancers. These types of cancer can be treated with non-invasive Electron Beam Therapy.

Non-Surgical Electron Beam Therapy
Electron beam offers patients an effective treatment without surgery. A small electron beam pinpoints the area precisely and destroys the cancer cells on contact. It is well controlled and does not penetrate the tissues too deeply, which preserves healthy tissue. While it is highly effective, it requires several rounds of treatment to ensure the cancer cells are completely eradicated and not impeding any tissue margins. Electron beam therapy offers dermatologists a precise mechanism for non-melanoma cancers and is an excellent option for sensitive areas such as the ears, lips, nose, and near the eyes. Electron beam therapy disrupts the cancer cells and reduces their likelihood of reproducing. Not all dermatologists offer this innovative procedure.

ForCare Medical Group is on the leading edge of advanced procedures and treatment options. They are one of the only offices that provide Electron Beam Therapy here locally.

A dermatologist can diagnose up to 3,000 different skin disorders. On a regular basis, you should have a screening at least once a year. And, because some forms of skin cancer grow very rapidly, if you are experiencing any new types of lesions, bumps, moles that are of concern, you should schedule a dermatology appointment immediately.

ForCare Medical Practice in Tampa, FL
ForCare medical practice is dedicated to improving the health of Tampa, FL and surrounding areas. With advanced treatment options and passionate providers. They have a comprehensive practice that includes, dermatology, rheumatology, primary care and a clinical trials division.

Let the ForCare team help you take charge of your health for both preventative and proactive medical care.

Seth B. Forman, M.D.
Dr. Seth B. Forman, award-winning Dermatologist, is owner of the ForCare Medical Group and has provided patient care for 12 years. He is Board Certified in Dermatology and Dermatopathology.

Dr. Forman graduated from the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond and completed his residency in a training program dedicated to dermatology and skin care at the Medical College of Virginia. He served as Chief Resident during his final year of training. Following that, he completed an advanced fellowship in dermatopathology at the Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA. Additional fellowships include the Radiation Oncology Summer Fellow at The Medical College of Virginia and the Microsoft Interactive Fellow at the University of Southern California.

Dr. Forman’s research has led to his writing numerous peer-reviewed articles about various dermatological issues printed in select publications. Additionally, he is the primary author of two chapters in Comprehensive Dermatologic Drug Therapy, the leading reference textbook for dermatological therapeutics.

Dr. Forman is the winner of the AAMC/Pfizer Caring for Community Grant, American Cancer Society Community Service Grant and Mellette Cancer Scholarship. He is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, Hillsborough County Medical Association and The American Medical Association.

A much sought-after speaker, Dr. Forman is a Regional Board Member for the American Cancer Society, Board Chair of Hillel Academy and has served as Board Member of The Liaison Committee for Medical Education (LCME), The Medical College of Virginia.

To schedule your appointment, please call ForCare today at 813-960-2400 • 15416 North Florida Ave., Tampa, FL 33613