In the age of this internet, we are bombarded with all kind of “remedies” and “at home fixes” for certain medical conditions. Skin cancer is no exception. One of the most publicized and dangerous over the counter treatments in the dermatology field recently is a compound called Black Salve. It is a corrosive topical cream that destroys any skin it touches. This product is not regulated by the FDA, and has the potential to cause infection and scarring. It is marketed as a cancer cure, but can actually lead to a delayed diagnosis and worse prognosis if area is actually cancerous.
If there is any area for concern when doing your self-skin exam, you should see a Dermatologist for evaluation. Often times a new concern can also be benign and no treatment warranted. A head to toe skin exam performed once yearly at the Dermatologist is sufficient for a person without history of skin cancer or abnormal growths. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is the key to the best prognosis and outcome.
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