How to Prevent Skin Cancer: Dr. Ambay’s Expert Advice

July 7, 2025

Tampa’s sunny, higher-UV climate truly does increase skin cancer risk. But you can protect yourself with smart, daily habits from Tampa’s leading dermatology expert, Dr Ambay. Here’s how to prevent skin cancer with confidence and care.

Skin Cancer Prevention and Risks in Tampa

Tampa experiences some of the highest average UV index readings in the continental U.S., averaging over 250 sunny days per year and exposing residents to chronic ultraviolet radiation.

Florida also ranks second in the nation for skin cancer diagnoses – nearly one in 10 Floridians will be diagnosed with some form of this cancer in their lifetime. The area’s frequent sun exposure, combined with beach-friendly lifestyles and limited cloud cover, increases our area’s melanoma and non-melanoma rates.

Plus, saltwater reflection, all-day bayside activities, and tons of outdoor dining and infrastructure only intensify UV exposure. Daily sun protection and skin cancer prevention aren’t optional. They’re essential for Tampa locals who must understand key skin cancer prevention methods and ongoing care beyond just applying occasional sunscreen.

Who Has the Highest Risk for Skin Cancer?

Some groups face even greater danger in Tampa’s high-UV reality. Does sunscreen prevent skin cancer in these patients? While that’s an essential part of anyone’s daily routine, those in higher-risk categories should be more vigilant.

• Fair-skinned individuals with light hair/eyes: Less melanin present means less natural defense for your skin.
• People with many moles or atypical/dysplastic nevi: While relatively common, atypical moles must be monitored, as they constitute a higher melanoma risk.
• Outdoor professions (e.g., construction, lifeguards, etc): These careers require extended sun exposure without consistent protection.
• History of bad sunburns or tanning beds: DNA damage from ultraviolet radiation adds up over time.
• Family history of skin cancer: Genetics and previous lesions raise the risk.

Preventing Skin Cancer: Daily Tips and Practices

These actionable ways to prevent skin cancer should be part of everyone’s daily routine, particularly in Florida’s sunbelt:

• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, regardless of skin type and even on cloudy days or when casually running errands.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours outdoors and immediately after swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing if possible, including long sleeves, wide-brim hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Seek shade and minimize direct sun exposure during peak UV-index hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Use lip balm with SPF. Lips are often overlooked, but just as vulnerable!
• Check the UV index daily to plan outdoor activities accordingly.
• Avoid tanning beds entirely. The science is firm: tanning beds significantly increase melanoma risk.
• Stay hydrated, moisturize, and eat well to maintain healthy skin, which is better at natural cellular repair, particularly after a sunburn.

How to Prevent Skin Cancer With Regular Checks

Even without obvious warning signs, regular skin exams are key to preventing skin cancer. Tampa residents should, at a minimum, examine their skin monthly, using a mirror to look for new or changing spots. Then, schedule an annual skin cancer screening, and more frequently if you have a heightened risk factor.

During your annual screening, Dr. Ambay conducts a full-body check, evaluates moles, and performs a dermatoscopic exam. It’s a friendly, non-invasive but thorough process leading to early detection, which is life-saving.

Booking a skin cancer screening at 360 Dermatology is easy: Call the clinic or click the booking link here to take that mature, proactive step forward with your health.

Even More Advanced Ways to Prevent Skin Cancer

For those seeking deeper skin cancer prevention, especially in high-UV zones like Tampa, Dr. Ambay recommends these deeper strategies:

• Under-layer SPF clothing: UPF-rated garments provide even more consistent protection.
• Topical antioxidants (e.g., vitamins C & E): Help neutralize cell-damaging UV-induced free radicals.
• DNA repair enzymes in topical skincare products: Aims to correct UV damage at a cellular level and is often personally formulated for your skin concerns.
• Phototherapy/Photodynamic treatments: Controlled light treatments under our medical supervision. This is an especially great choice for folks with chronic skin conditions looking for a non-invasive but proactive way to stay on top of skin health.

Dr. Aparna Ambay: Your Skin Cancer Prevention Choice in Tampa

Dr. Aparna Ambay brings world-class training and a compassionate philosophy to 360 Dermatology, her premier Tampa dermatology practice.

With advanced expertise in treating melanoma and Mohs surgery, as well as 15+ years practicing cosmetic dermatology and reconstructive skin cancer procedures, Dr. Ambay has refined precise, patient-centered skin cancer care. She has trained at some of the country’s top programs, including Rochester’s internationally renowned Mayo Clinic, Wisconsin’s Marshfield Clinic, and advanced residencies at UW-Madison – all under leading dermatologists and surgeons. As a trusted expert in melanoma screening and treatment, she empowers each of her patients to be in the driver’s seat of their health.

Schedule Your Skin Check

Take control of your skin health today when it comes to how to prevent skin cancer. Schedule a skin cancer screening with Dr. Ambay at 360 Dermatology.

Expert prevention and early detection should not wait. Book a skin cancer screening with Dr. Ambay at 360 Dermatology to protect yourself and your loved ones from skin cancer.

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