Westminster Dermatology

When Was the Last Time You Checked Your Moles?

Most moles are completely harmless, but knowing what to look for and recognizing changes in your skin can play an important role in the early detection of skin cancer.

At Westminster Dermatology, we encourage our patients to be proactive about their skin health by performing regular self-exams and scheduling routine professional skin checks.

One of the easiest ways to remember what to look for is the ABCDEs of melanoma:

A – Asymmetry: One half of a mole looks different from the other.

B – Border: Edges are irregular, uneven, or poorly defined.

C – Color: The mole has multiple colors or uneven pigmentation.

D – Diameter: Melanomas are often larger than 6mm, about the size of a pencil eraser, but can be smaller.

E – Evolving: A mole changes in size, shape, color, or appearance over time.

And remember, not all skin cancers follow these warning signs. Any new, unusual, bleeding, or non-healing spot deserves attention.

Don't spend time worrying about a suspicious spot when you can have it professionally evaluated.

If you've noticed a changing mole or something on your skin that concerns you, the team at Westminster Dermatology is here to help.

Early detection matters. Schedule your skin exam today!

As temperatures drop and the air becomes drier, you may start noticing itchy skin, flaking, redness, or increased sensitivity. For those living with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, seasonal changes can also trigger uncomfortable flare-ups.

At Westminster Dermatology, we want to help you keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and comfortable as we transition into the colder months.

Here are a few simple ways to prepare your skin:

Moisturize daily. Switch to a richer cream or ointment to help lock in moisture.

Turn down the water temperature. Long, hot showers can strip your skin of its natural oils.

Use a humidifier. Adding moisture back into your home's air can help combat dryness caused by indoor heating.

Choose gentle skincare products. Avoid harsh cleansers and heavily fragranced products that may irritate sensitive skin.

Don't forget sunscreen! UV protection is still important, even when it's cold outside.

If you're experiencing persistent dryness, irritation, or flare-ups that aren't improving with your usual skincare routine, it may be time to visit your dermatologist.

Healthy skin is a year-round priority! Let the team at Westminster Dermatology help you keep your skin feeling its best, no matter what Maryland's weather brings.

Cooler Weather Doesn't Mean Your Skin Is Safe from the Sun!

Crisp mornings, colorful leaves, cozy sweaters, and beautiful fall days in Maryland! It's the perfect time to get outside and enjoy everything autumn has to offer.

But before you head out for a hike, visit a pumpkin patch, or spend the afternoon enjoying the fall foliage, there's something important to remember.

Just because the temperatures are dropping doesn't mean UV exposure is!

Sunburn and sun damage are caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, not heat. Even on cool, cloudy fall days, UV rays can reach your skin and contribute to premature aging, sunspots, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

At Westminster Dermatology, we want to remind you that sun protection is important all year long, not just during the summer months!

A few simple ways to protect your skin this fall:

Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher before heading outdoors.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours when spending extended time outside.

Don't skip sunscreen just because it's cloudy or chilly.

Wear sunglasses and protective clothing when possible.

Pay attention to changes in your skin and schedule regular skin checks.

Enjoy the beauty of fall without forgetting to protect your skin!

And remember, if you've noticed a new or changing spot, or it's simply been a while since your last skin exam, our team at Westminster Dermatology is here to help.

Early detection can make all the difference when it comes to skin cancer.

Changes in your skin are not always obvious, and spots that look harmless may deserve a closer look. Regular skin exams give your dermatologist the opportunity to identify suspicious areas early, when skin cancers are often easier to treat.

At Westminster Dermatology, we encourage you to make skin checks part of your regular healthcare routine, especially if you have a history of sun exposure, tanning, frequent sunburns, or skin cancer in your family.

And if you notice a mole or spot that is new, changing, itching, bleeding, or simply looks different from the others, don’t wait for your next routine visit.
Protect your skin. Know your skin. Get checked.

Years of sun exposure can show up on your skin as brown spots, uneven tone, redness, rough texture, fine lines, and other visible changes. While we can’t erase every effect of UV exposure, many of the signs we see on the surface can be improved with the right dermatologic treatment plan.

More importantly, sun damage isn’t always cosmetic. UV exposure can also cause cellular damage that increases the risk of precancerous spots and skin cancer, making regular skin checks an important part of caring for your skin.

At Westminster Dermatology, we can help you evaluate your skin, discuss concerns from past sun exposure, and determine which treatment options may be right for you.

Your skin has a history. Let’s take good care of its future.

Ready for healthier, happier skin?

Whether you’re dealing with a specific skin concern, managing an ongoing condition, or simply want to feel more confident in your skin, the team at Westminster Dermatology is here to help.
From medical dermatology to cosmetic treatments, we offer personalized care designed around you and your skin’s unique needs.

Ready to get started? Schedule your appointment online today at:
www.westminsterdermatology.com

Did you know your skin can reflect the stress you’re feeling?

Breakouts, dry patches, irritation, and flare-ups of existing skin conditions can sometimes become more noticeable during periods of increased stress. Your skin and your overall well-being are more connected than you might think.

At Westminster Dermatology, we understand that healthy skin isn’t always as simple as changing a product or adding another step to your skincare routine. Our team can help identify what may be contributing to your concerns and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your skin and your needs.

If stress seems to be showing up on your skin, don’t ignore it. Schedule an appointment with Westminster Dermatology and let’s work toward getting your skin feeling healthy and comfortable again.

A few fall skincare reminders:

• Keep moisturizing, even if your skin felt oily all summer
• Continue wearing sunscreen every day
• Avoid overly hot showers that can dry out your skin
• Pay attention to new or changing spots on your skin
• Schedule a dermatology appointment if dryness, irritation, or other concerns are not improving

Welcome, fall! Let’s keep your skin healthy all season long.

Fall is officially here, and while we may be ready for cooler temperatures, our skin sometimes needs a little help adjusting.

As the weather becomes cooler and the air gets drier, you may start to notice changes like dryness, flaking, irritation, or increased sensitivity. Now is a great time to transition your skincare routine for the season.

Schedule an appointment soon to discuss our dermatologist recomended skincare available in our office.

Your skin deserves care that’s as unique as you are. Whether you’re addressing a specific concern or simply want to keep your skin looking and feeling its best, the team at Westminster Dermatology is here to help.

Explore our dermatology and cosmetic services and take the next step toward healthier, more confident skin. Visit our website to learn more.