Why Winter Is the Best Time to Get a Skin Check

by Dr Andrew Trang, Green Square Health

When most people think about skin checks, they tend to associate them with summer, which makes sense. We’re outdoors more, exposed to the sun, and suddenly reminded to keep an eye on moles and freckles.

But here’s the thing: winter is actually one of the best times to get your skin checked. It’s less obvious, but it’s smarter, and here’s why.

 

1. Sun Damage Doesn’t Pause in Winter

Just because it’s cooler doesn’t mean the sun isn’t doing its thing. UV radiation is still present during winter, and it continues to affect your skin whether you feel it or not. Sun damage is cumulative – it adds up slowly over time – and what you’ve picked up during summer doesn’t suddenly go away in June.

Getting a skin check in winter gives us the chance to spot issues that may have developed after months of sun exposure, before they become more serious.

 

2. No Tan Means Better Visibility

When your skin isn’t tanned, we get a clearer view of what’s going on underneath. Changes in pigmentation, new moles, or irregular spots are often more noticeable on untanned skin, making winter an ideal time to assess things properly.

It’s not just about what’s new – it’s about what’s changing, and winter gives us a better window into that.

 

3. It’s Easier to Get an Appointment

The demand for skin checks tends to spike in late spring and summer, which means longer wait times and fewer appointment options. In winter, clinics are generally quieter, so you’re more likely to find a time that suits you, and you won’t be rushing to squeeze it in around holidays or beach trips.

 

4. You’re More Covered Up — and That Can Hide Things

In winter, most of us are layered up. Arms, legs, shoulders, all the areas that typically get sun exposure, stay out of sight for months. That makes it easy to miss new spots or changes in existing ones. A proper skin check ensures we’re still keeping an eye on areas you might not see yourself.

 

5. You’ve Got Time to Follow Up Before Summer

If something does need further investigation or treatment, winter gives us time to act. Healing from minor procedures is often easier in cooler weather, when you’re out of the sun and not sweating through dressings. It means you can head into summer confident that your skin’s in good shape.

Ready to Get Checked?

If it’s been a while since your last skin check, or if you’ve noticed anything new or unusual, now’s the perfect time to get on top of it.

You can book in with me, Dr Andrew Trang, or one of my colleagues – Dr Sarah Macdonald, Dr Min Yin Huang, or Dr Jason Boyd – all of whom are experienced in skin checks and skin cancer management.

You can book online or give our team a call.

Let’s take care of it now, so you can enjoy the warmer months with peace of mind.

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