Your skin reveals a lot about your health. Therefore, it’s time to start paying attention to it and getting in the habit of checking your skin regularly. By being aware of your skin’s health, you can better be able to treat and prevent common skincare problems and even prevent or catch early some forms of skin cancer. In honour of National Healthy Skin Month which occurs annually in November, here are some tips on what to look for and how to check the skin all over your body.
Check for any changes to your skin
Changes in your skin can often reflect your overall health. Itching or a rash can often be a sign of an irritation, allergic reaction, infection or more seriously some auto immune disorders. Dryness and cracked skin, can be a sign your body is dehydrated. Skin breakouts can be as a result of stress. Knowing what is going on with your skin can help you get the right support and treatments.
Check the spots and blemishes on your skin
Check your body over from head to between your toes for any new growth or spots on your skin and notice if existing moles or spots have gotten bigger. Make sure to look for any unusual shape or colour spots and have anything you may be concerned about checked by a Doctor.
Follow these steps to examine your skin:
- Stand in front of a full-length mirror.
- Look at your arms front and back from your fingers to your shoulders, forearms and palms of your hands.
- Look at your legs from your thighs to your feet, don’t forget the soles of your feet and between your toes. To make this easier you can sit on a chair.
- To look at your neck, scalp, back and buttocks use a hand mirror.
The first time you examine your skin, take note of the spots, blemishes and colour of them. Therefore, the next time you check your skin you’ll be able to notice any changes.
Written by Alyssa Rolnick, Co-Founder of Zax’s Original Products, Registered Dietitian and Mother of a very busy household.