What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Screening

Why Regular Skin Checks Are Especially Important in Las Vegas

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to prioritize your skin health—especially here in Las Vegas, where year-round sun exposure can significantly increase your risk.

Even if you wear sunscreen regularly, cumulative sun exposure over time can lead to skin damage and an increased risk of skin cancer. The good news is that when caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable. That’s why routine skin exams are one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health.

At Summerlin Dermatology, we provide thorough, professional skin cancer screenings in a comfortable and supportive environment—so you know exactly what to expect every step of the way.

What Is a Skin Cancer Screening?

A skin cancer screening is a visual exam of your skin performed by a trained dermatology professional. The goal is to identify any unusual moles, spots, or lesions that may need further evaluation.

These screenings are quick, non-invasive, and can play a critical role in detecting skin cancer at its earliest—and most treatable—stage.

What Happens During Your Appointment?

If you’ve never had a skin cancer screening before, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to expect. The process is simple and straightforward.

1. Review of Your Medical History

Your provider may ask about:

• Personal or family history of skin cancer

• Sun exposure habits

• Any specific spots or changes you’ve noticed

2. Full-Body Skin Exam

A provider will carefully examine your skin from head to toe, including:

• Face, scalp, and ears

• Arms, legs, and torso

• Hands, feet, and nails

This allows us to check for any unusual or changing areas that may need closer attention.

3. Evaluation of Moles or Spots

If anything looks suspicious, your provider may:

• Take a closer look using specialized tools

• Monitor the area over time

• Recommend a biopsy if needed

Most screenings do not require any additional procedures, but if they do, everything will be clearly explained before moving forward.

What Should You Look for at Home?

Between professional screenings, it’s important to monitor your own skin. Watch for:

• New moles or growths

• Changes in size, shape, or color

• Irregular borders

• Spots that itch, bleed, or don’t heal

A helpful guideline is the ABCDE rule:

• Asymmetry

• Border irregularity

• Color variation

• Diameter (larger than a pencil eraser)

• Evolving (changing over time)

If you notice any of these changes, it’s a good idea to schedule an evaluation.

How Often Should You Get a Skin Check?

For most adults, an annual skin exam is recommended. However, you may need more frequent screenings if you:

• Have a history of skin cancer

• Have many moles or atypical moles

• Have fair skin or a history of sunburns

• Spend significant time outdoors

Living in Las Vegas, where UV exposure is high throughout the year, makes regular screenings even more important.

Early Detection Can Make All the Difference

Skin cancer is one of the most common—and most preventable—types of cancer. The key is catching it early.

A simple screening can provide peace of mind and help ensure that any concerns are addressed before they become more serious.

📞 Call us at 702-243-4501 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your skin cancer screening at Summerlin Dermatology.

Microneedling for Anti-Aging and Acne Scars: What to Expect

A Collagen-Boosting Treatment to Refresh and Restore Your Skin in Las Vegas

If you're looking to improve skin texture, reduce acne scars, and soften fine lines without surgery, microneedling is one of the most effective treatments available. This minimally invasive procedure works by stimulating your body’s natural healing process—helping your skin look smoother, firmer, and more youthful over time.

At Summerlin Dermatology, microneedling is a popular option for patients who want noticeable results with little downtime. Whether you're targeting acne scars, early signs of aging, or overall skin rejuvenation, this treatment can be customized to your unique skin goals.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a procedure that uses a device with fine, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These tiny channels trigger your body to produce more collagen and elastin, which are essential for healthy, youthful-looking skin.

Over time, this process helps improve skin texture, tone, and firmness—making it a versatile solution for multiple concerns.

What Can Microneedling Treat?

Microneedling is commonly used to improve:

• Acne scars and post-inflammatory marks

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Uneven skin texture

• Enlarged pores

• Mild skin laxity

• Sun damage and pigmentation

Because it works beneath the surface of the skin, microneedling is especially effective for concerns that topical products alone can’t fully address.

What to Expect During Treatment

Microneedling is a straightforward, in-office procedure performed by trained professionals.

During Your Appointment:

• A topical numbing cream is applied for comfort

• The microneedling device is gently passed over the skin

• The treatment typically takes about 30–60 minutes

Most patients describe the experience as mild and very tolerable.

After Treatment:

• Skin may appear slightly red, similar to a mild sunburn

• Mild sensitivity or tightness may occur for 1–2 days

• Most patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours

Over the following weeks, your skin will gradually look smoother and more refreshed as collagen production increases.

Microneedling with PRP: Enhanced Results

For even greater benefits, microneedling can be combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). This technique uses your body’s own growth factors to further support healing and collagen production.

Microneedling with PRP can help:

• Improve acne scarring more effectively

• Enhance skin tone and texture

• Accelerate healing and results

How Many Treatments Will You Need?

While some improvement can be seen after a single session, most patients benefit from a series of treatments spaced a few weeks apart for optimal results.

During your consultation at Summerlin Dermatology, we’ll recommend a treatment plan based on your skin type, concerns, and goals.

Is Microneedling Right for You?

Microneedling is a great option for many patients, especially those looking for a natural, non-surgical approach to improving their skin.

It may be right for you if:

• You want to reduce acne scars or early signs of aging

• You prefer a treatment with minimal downtime

• You’re looking to boost collagen naturally

• You want gradual, long-lasting improvements

Refresh Your Skin This Spring

Spring is the perfect time to invest in your skin—especially before the peak summer sun arrives. Microneedling can help you achieve smoother, clearer, and more radiant skin just in time for the warmer months.

📞 Call us at 702-243-4501 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your consultation at Summerlin Dermatology.

The Best Skincare Ingredients for Aging Skin (and What to Avoid)

Understanding What Actually Helps Mature Skin Stay Healthy and Radiant

As we age, our skin naturally begins to change. Collagen production slows down, skin becomes thinner, and it may start to lose elasticity and hydration. Fine lines, uneven tone, and dryness can become more noticeable over time.

The good news is that the right skincare ingredients can make a meaningful difference. At Summerlin Dermatology, we help patients choose products and treatments that support healthy, aging skin while avoiding ingredients that may cause irritation or unnecessary damage.

If you're building a skincare routine for mature skin, here are some of the most effective ingredients to look for—and a few things you may want to avoid.

Retinol: The Gold Standard for Anti-Aging

Retinol (a form of Vitamin A) is one of the most researched and dermatologist-recommended ingredients for aging skin. It works by encouraging skin cell turnover and stimulating collagen production.

Benefits of Retinol

• Helps soften fine lines and wrinkles

• Improves skin texture and tone

• Supports collagen production

• Helps fade sun damage and pigmentation

Because retinol can sometimes cause dryness or irritation when first introduced, it’s best to start slowly and use it under the guidance of a dermatologist. Many patients benefit from professional treatments that complement retinol use, such as chemical peels or microneedling, which help improve skin renewal and texture.

Peptides: Supporting Skin Structure

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as building blocks for important skin proteins like collagen and elastin.

Why Peptides Are Helpful for Mature Skin

• Help support skin firmness

• Improve hydration and barrier function

• Reduce the appearance of fine lines

• Work well alongside other anti-aging ingredients

Many patients ask about retinol vs peptides, but the truth is that these ingredients often work best together, supporting both skin renewal and structural strength.

Hyaluronic Acid: Deep Hydration for Aging Skin

As skin ages, it tends to lose moisture more easily. Hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain hydration and maintain a smoother appearance.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

• Attracts and holds moisture in the skin

• Helps plump the appearance of fine lines

• Improves overall skin texture

• Works well for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin

Hydrating treatments such as HydraFacialMD can also help replenish moisture and improve skin radiance, especially in dry climates like Las Vegas.

Vitamin C: Brightening and Protecting the Skin

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental damage while improving overall tone and brightness.

Benefits of Vitamin C

• Helps brighten dull skin

• Supports collagen production

• Reduces the appearance of dark spots

• Protects against free radical damage from sun exposure

Because Las Vegas has intense sun exposure year-round, antioxidants like Vitamin C can be an important part of a daily skincare routine.

Ingredients to Be Careful With

While many skincare ingredients can be helpful, some products may be too harsh for mature skin if used improperly.

Over-Exfoliating Acids

Strong exfoliating products used too frequently can damage the skin barrier and lead to irritation.

Highly Fragranced Products

Fragrance is a common cause of irritation and sensitivity, especially for aging skin.

Aggressive Scrubs

Physical scrubs with rough particles can cause micro-tears in the skin and worsen inflammation.

Instead of experimenting with harsh products, a personalized skincare plan can help you get the most benefit from proven ingredients while protecting your skin’s health.

Professional Treatments That Support Aging Skin

In addition to at-home skincare, professional treatments can significantly improve the appearance of aging skin. At Summerlin Dermatology, we offer a variety of options designed to support skin health and rejuvenation, including:

• Microneedling to stimulate collagen production

• Chemical Peels to improve skin tone and texture

• Laser Skin Resurfacing for deeper skin renewal

• Clear + Brilliant Laser Treatment to improve early signs of aging

• HydraFacialMD to hydrate and refresh the skin

These treatments can work alongside medical-grade skincare products to help patients achieve smoother, brighter, and healthier skin.

Healthy Skin at Every Age

Aging is a natural process, but the right skincare routine can help your skin stay vibrant and healthy for years to come. By focusing on proven ingredients and professional guidance, you can avoid common skincare mistakes and choose products that truly support your skin.

📞 Call us at 702-243-4501 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule a consultation and learn more about personalized skincare solutions at Summerlin Dermatology.