New Year, Healthier Skin: Why A January Skin Exam Matters

January is often a time to reset health priorities, and skin health deserves a place on that list. Scheduling a skin exam early in the year helps establish a proactive routine rather than reacting to problems later, which is especially important in sunny Naples, FL, where year-round sun exposure increases risk. 

Harris Dermatology is led by board-certified dermatologists Brian A. Harris, MD, Keith A. Harris, MD, and H. Ross Harris, MD, who returned to Southwest Florida after medical training to focus their practice on the detection and care of skin cancer. Their training and experience in diagnosing suspicious lesions make regular skin exams an important step in protecting skin health at the start of the year.

Why Skin Exams Are Essential

A skin exam allows a dermatologist to evaluate the entire skin surface for early signs of concern. Skin cancer, sun damage, and other conditions can develop without pain or obvious symptoms, making professional evaluation critical. A full-body skin exam can help identify issues when they are most treatable, providing peace of mind and clear next steps.

Why January Is The Ideal Time

There are practical and health-related reasons to schedule a skin exam in January rather than waiting.

• Skin often has less recent sun exposure, making changes easier to detect
• Many insurance plans reset deductibles at the start of the year
• A January visit sets a baseline for monitoring skin changes throughout the year

This timing supports consistency, which is key for preventive care.

What Happens During A Skin Exam

A skin exam is typically quick, thorough, and noninvasive. The dermatologist examines the skin from head to toe, checking moles, freckles, and spots for irregularities. Any areas of concern may be photographed or biopsied if necessary. This visit is commonly part of an annual dermatology exam and can also address other skin concerns such as rashes, acne, or irritation.

Who Should Schedule An Exam

Many people benefit from a yearly skin exam, especially those who live in Florida.

• Individuals with frequent sun exposure or a history of sunburns
• People with changing or new moles
• Anyone with a personal or family history of skin cancer
• Adults who have not had an annual dermatology exam

Even those without noticeable issues can benefit from routine screening.

Professional Annual Skin Exams In Naples, FL

Taking care of your skin at the start of the year can make a meaningful difference in long-term health and early detection. A professional skin exam helps identify concerns before they become more serious and provides reassurance about what is normal for your skin. 

Harris Dermatology offers thorough skin exams for patients in Naples, FL, with a focus on prevention and individualized care. January is an ideal time to take that first step toward healthier skin. To schedule a consultation, call 239-596-1848 for our Naples location or 239-936-3344 for our Fort Myers location and start the year feeling confident about your skin health.