Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. However, it is also one of the most preventable types of cancer. Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged, usually by the sun. It comes from UV exposure which can also be found in tanning beds. It’s not dangerous and highly treatable, but if left unchecked, it can lead to various cancers that can kill a person.
Basal and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types of skin cancer. At the same time, melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is more common than the other two on this list. It is usually found on your skin open sun exposure, such as the face, neck, chest, back, or legs. Basal cell carcinomas rarely spread to other body parts and are not usually life-threatening. However, they can be disfiguring if not treated promptly. Here are a few treatment options for this kind of skin cancer.
Skin Products
This kind of cancer is simple enough that it can be treated by using unique skin products. For example, products that contain vitamin A can help to slow the growth of basal cell carcinoma and may even prevent it from spreading further. Vitamin C serums are also a good option for treating basal cell carcinoma since they can brighten the complexion and reduce discoloration caused by sun damage. If you don’t know what skin products to use to deal with it, consider contacting online cosmetic skin solutions. They can develop a specific skincare routine for you to help prevent and treat basal cell carcinoma.
Surgery
If the cancer is more advanced, surgery may be necessary to remove all of it. Surgery involves cutting out the tumor and some healthy tissue around it to ensure no cancer cells are left behind. However, there is a risk of scarring or disfigurement after surgery, so it is crucial to speak with your doctor about the benefits and risks of this treatment option before you choose it.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This can be found on areas of the skin that are open to the sun, such as the face and people’s hands. Squamous cell carcinomas can spread to other body parts and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. It can be more dangerous than basal cell carcinoma, so you should be careful if you get diagnosed with it. Much like basal cell carcinoma, there are various ways to treat this disease. Here are some of those ways.
Cryotherapy
One of the best ways to treat squamous cell carcinoma is cryotherapy. This treatment involves applying liquid nitrogen to the cancerous tissue, which freezes and kills it. This method can be used for small and large tumors and does not usually cause scarring or disfigurement. However, this treatment must be administered multiple times to ensure the complete removal of the cancerous tissue.
Radiation Therapy
Another treatment option for squamous cell carcinoma is radiation therapy. This treatment uses X-rays or other types of radiation to kill the cancerous cells in a tumor and prevent them from spreading to other areas of the body. Radiation treatments are usually given as an outpatient procedure, but they can cause side effects such as nausea and fatigue.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It can occur anywhere on the body but is most often found in moles. Melanomas can spread quickly to other body parts and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Treatment for melanoma includes targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
Target Therapy
This therapy is all about attacking the cancer cells directly. Several medications can target melanoma and block its growth, including sorafenib, vemurafenib, and dabrafenib. These medications can have side effects, such as fatigue or nausea, but they treat melanoma effectively.
Immunotherapy
Another treatment option for melanoma is immunotherapy. This treatment involves using medications that boost the immune system to attack and kill the cancerous cells in a tumor. This can effectively prevent or slow melanoma growth but may have side effects, such as flu-like symptoms or skin rash.
Skin cancer is preventable, and protecting your skin from the sun is essential. If you are diagnosed with one of these cancers, there are many treatment options available to you that can help you overcome this disease and get back to living a healthy life. Please research the different treatments so you can discuss them with your doctor and make an informed decision about how to treat your condition.
