Dermatologists say that redheads need to take extra care in checking their skin for signs of cancer, as well as avoiding unprotected sun exposure. If you have red hair, then your body produces a hair pigment known as “pheomelanin.” It is believed that this pigment may increase the risk of developing melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer, even for individuals who do not spend excessive amounts of time in the sun.
Their research was verified by producing red headed mice that contained the same human red pigment. It seems that this pigment may rob the cells of their crucial levels of antioxidants that can prevent DNA and cell damage. The sun seems to just amplify the negative properties of this red pigment.
THIS IS A LITTLE CLOSE TO HOME, BEING A RED HEAD MYSELF! SO, WHAT DOES THIS MEAN…RED HEADS NEED TO GET BODY CHECKS MORE FREQUENTLY. IF THEY HAVE NO FAMILY HISTORY OF SKIN CANCER THEY SHOULD BE CHECKED TWICE A YEAR, RATHER THAN THE ONCE A YEAR RECOMMENDED TO MOST PEOPLE. IF THERE IS A FAMILY HISTORY OF SKIN CANCER THEY SHOULD BE CHECKED EVERY 3-4 MONTHS. THIS IS SO IMPORTANT AS THE RED PIGMENT CARRIED BY RED HEADS ALLOWS SKIN CANCERS TO OCCUR ON PARTS OF THE BODY THAT MAY NEVER BE TOUCHED BY SUNLIGHT AND NOT EASILY FOUND OR SEEN BY THE PATIENT THEMSELVES.
Why Choose DSA Dermatology?
At DSA Dermatology, we bring to you the best of not one but three leading dermatologists in Plano TX,
At DSA Dermatology, we bring to you the best of not one but three leading dermatologists in Plano TX, Dr. Daniel S. Achtman, Dr. Carmine G. McConnell and Dr. Jordan. Achtman.
Dr. Achtman is a board-certified Dermatologist with over three decades of experience. Having graduated from the medical school of McMaster University, he also studied at the UTSW Medical Center in Dallas, TX where he also served as Chief Resident in the Department of Dermatology. In addition to possessing extensive training and experience in cosmetic enhancement techniques, Dr. Achtman is widely known as a leading expert in the diagnosis and treatment of various skin cancers. He is an active member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Achtman goes the extra mile to understand your medical concerns and to ensure that he helps you meet your unique aesthetic goals.
Dr. Carmine G. McConnell is a board-certified physician in Plano TX. Having been trained at McMaster University, Canada, she went on to earn her board certification in Texas. Having served as Chief of Staff of her department at Plano Medical Center, she has over two decades of experience in practicing medicine in her practice and while assisting Dr. Achtman in the practice of dermatology. In addition to her extensive postgraduate training in laser therapy and aesthetic surgery, among other procedures, she possesses vast experience in both cosmetic dermatological techniques and family medicine. As a conscientious and caring physician, Dr. McConnell provides her patients with customized non-surgical treatments to help address health and aesthetic concerns related to the skin. She is also keen on helping patients understand their skin and how it can be cared for and protected.
Dr. Jordan Achtman is a board-certified dermatologist in DSA Dermatology at Plano, TX. Dr. J. Achtman graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and completed his residency in dermatology at UT Southwestern. His expertise spans general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. Dr. J. Achtman also has various special interests including chronic itch, infectious diseases of the skin, and the relationship between mental health and skin health. He is also very keen on helping patients form healthy skincare regimens and habits. In the hands of Dr. J. Achtman, you can be assured of innovative and cutting edge solutions for all your skin concerns.
