How long will the effects last?
If you have had skin cancer, you are at a higher risk for developing skin cancer again. You should be sure to have regular exams so that your healthcare provider can check your skin in treated areas as well as other places where cancer may develop.

How can I help prevent skin cancer?
Check your skin regularly and report any changes to your healthcare provider right away. If you are at high risk, see your healthcare provider for a baseline skin exam and regularly scheduled examinations as recommended.

Avoid being in too much sun. Wear clothing and hats that cover you, and stay out of the midday sun as much as possible. Use sunscreen lotions to protect against UV light when you are outdoors. The higher the SPF number (sun protection factor) of the sunscreen, the greater the protection. Use a lotion with an SPF of at least 15. For water sports, use a sunscreen lotion that does not wash off in the water. If you are allergic to PABA, use PABA-free sunscreen lotions. And remember that UV rays from the sun can cause sunburn or damage even on cloudy days.  Do not use sunlamps or tanning booths.

To get more information about skin cancer, talk to your provider or contact:
American Cancer Society, Inc.
Phone: 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345)
Web site: http://www.cancer.org