Welcome at the SKIN doctor
Skin cancer can be very well treated if diagnosed early.
We offer a full skin cancer service, with a risk assessment, mole mapping, microscopic full body examination and treatment, all in one clinic.
“Melanoma writes its message on the skin with its own ink, and it is there for all of us to see. Unfortunately some see, but do not comprehend”
Dr. Neville Davis
Sun Protection
By far the most important risk factor for developing skin cancer is high sun exposure. Protection from the sun prevents skin cancer! High protecting sunscreen (SPF30+) needs to be applied before going outdoors, and it needs to be reapplied every 2-4 hours. Make sure you are in the shade during the warmest hours of the day. Also wear a hat that also covers the neck, and wear protective clothes.
We do need a bit of sunlight exposure let our skin make vitamin D to help keep our bones strong. For a good dose of vitamin D only 10 minutes a day in the sun is enough, in the Nelson/Tasman region that won’t be a problem!
Vitamin B3 (Nicotinamide)
It has been shown in studies that Vitamine B3 in tablet form prevents non-melanoma skin cancer. If you are at high risk for skin cancer, it can be helpful taking 500mg Vitamin B3 twice a day. These tablets are not funded, but can be bought at the pharmacy or health shop.
Self Checks
Regularly check yourself or ask your partner to check your skin for new or changing skin spots. Contact a doctor if you are worried about a skin lesion
Doctor Skin Checks
It is advised to have a skin check by a professional at least once. If you are at high risk for developing skin cancer, you may benefit from regular skin checks. Not every doctor is experienced in doing these checks. You can search for doctors who completed an extensive skin cancer training program here. Dr. Sebastiaan Klaver has had most of the needed training and will complete his pathway to become an SCCA Accredited Skin Cancer Doctor in July 2019.