The first Monday of every may is ‘Melanoma Monday’, a day created by the American Academy of Dermatology for more awareness of this skin condition.
Dr. Jennifer Mueller, a board certified Dermatologist at Clear Dermatology told Erie News Now that even though it’s not the most common form, that melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and causes the majority of skin cancer deaths.

“So I think it’s very important for people to understand that they need to have regular skin checks,” Mueller said. “They need to perform skin checks for themselves monthly and then get a skin check from a dermatologist usually once a year.”

She said  even though it seems easy to check our own skin, we can’t see our scalps and backs, that's why profession eyes are important.

The question remains: what do we look out for?

Mueller said to look out for the “ugly duckling,” or anything that looks unusual on your skin.

By that she means, anything that’s enlarged, a different color, elevated, or that changes.

If you have a family history or use indoor tanning beds, she said begin thorough screening in your early 20. Otherwise, start exams when you turn 30, although Mueller said everyone of any age should keep an eye out on their skin and most importantly prevent skin damage.

“Absolutely there is no safe way to tan, unfortunately” Mueller said. “But we are completely fine with sunless tanning lotion. It’s critically important to wear sunscreen and it really does help reduce the amount of radiation you receive in your body which decreases your risk of melanoma.”

Mueller said there’s no such thing as “the damage is already done,” and that it is never too late to start taking care of your skin.