Love Your Skin: Smart Ways to Prevent Skin Cancer Year-Round
Jan 30, 2026At Pacific Crest Dermatology, we believe the best approach to skin cancer prevention is early detection and proactive care. Early detection saves lives! As a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship mohs-trained surgeon, Dr. Schneider knows firsthand how the region’s high elevation and sunny climate increase UV exposure year-round. That’s why she is committed to providing education, expert screenings, and personalized skin care strategies to help protect your skin.
Why Skin Cancer Prevention Matters
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, yet it’s also one of the most treatable when caught early. Regular skin checks and prevention strategies significantly reduce your risk of advanced disease. At Pacific Crest Dermatology, we specialize in all types of skin cancer — including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma — and tailor every plan to your skin’s unique needs.
Top Skin Cancer Prevention Tips from Our Experts
☀️ 1. Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Daily
Even on cloudy Carson City days or during winter hikes in the Sierra Nevada, UV rays can damage your skin. We recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, applied 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every two hours — especially when outdoors.
👒 2. Seek Shade During Peak UV Hours
UV exposure peaks between 10 AM and 4 PM. Scheduling outdoor activities outside these hours or seeking shade can drastically reduce your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
🕶️ 3. Wear Protective Clothing
Long-sleeve shirts, UV-blocking sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats are simple tools that significantly reduce sun exposure.
🔍 4. Perform Monthly Skin Self-Exams
Get familiar with your skin. Look for new or changing moles, growths, or spots that bleed or itch. Early recognition empowers you to seek professional evaluation right away!
🩺 5. Get Regular Professional Screenings
At Pacific Crest Dermatology, we offer comprehensive skin cancer screenings and biopsies when needed. Our fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, Dr. Schneider, performs detailed exams designed to catch suspicious changes early — often before symptoms begin.
Personalized Care in Northern Nevada
Unlike larger corporate clinics, Pacific Crest Dermatology is an independently owned private practice deeply rooted in our Carson City community. From the moment you call our office, you’ll experience attentive, patient-centered care based on real relationships — not rushed visits. Whether you’re here for a routine screening or personalized skin health advice, our team takes the time to listen, educate, and tailor recommendations that fit your lifestyle.
Why Early Detection Saves Lives
Skin cancer that’s detected early is often highly treatable with less invasive procedures. For high-risk or delicate areas, we offer Mohs Micrographic Surgery — the gold standard for skin cancer removal — providing tissue-sparing precision and the best possible outcomes.
Protect Your Skin — and Your Future
Prevention starts with awareness and simple daily habits, but the best protection comes from having a dermatologist you trust. At Pacific Crest Dermatology, we’re here to help you stay ahead of skin cancer with expert guidance, thorough screenings, and compassionate care.
📅 Ready to schedule your skin check or have questions about prevention?
Call our office or visit our website to book an appointment and take the first step toward healthier, safer skin.