Some people compare Southwest Florida to living in paradise. But the sunshine state can create a lot of stress on your skin.

“We know that light complexion people are more at risk, significantly more at risk for skin cancers, than medium and darker pigmented people,” says Dr. Drew Kreegel, a plastic surgeon with Lee Memorial Health System.

More than 1 million cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed this year. So no matter what your genetic makeup, its important to do a self-examination, starting with the head. “The scalp can develop skin cancers particularly people with light hair, and who don’t have very dense hair,” adds Dr. Kreegel. Then it’s on to those hard to reach places. This is where you may want to ask for help from family members or friends. “So, the scalp, behind the ears; areas that are difficult to look at, areas that you don’t look at everyday. These are the areas you look at in your total body survey, and should be done at least twice a year,” suggests Dr. Kreegel. Rounding out the self exam: the arms, legs, feet, areas that see the most sun exposure. Also, check under your forearms and in between your toes.

“If you’re not trained to recognize and suspect lesions but something doesn’t look right, you should have it looked at,” adds Dr. Kreegel. A quick self-exam that could mean less problems in your future.