UV Safety Awareness Month is a reminder that skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. In fact, more skin cancers are diagnosed in the US each year than all other cancers combined. The number of skin cancer cases has been going up over the past few decades.
Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Most of this exposure comes from the sun, but some may come from man-made sources, such as indoor tanning beds and sun lamps.
Sunscreen will reduce your chances of developing skin cancer and getting annual skin checks is vital for catching this condition early.
By the way, if you think you’ll never get skin cancer, I’ll tell you this; none of my patients who came to me for skin cancer reconstruction surgery thought they would ever get cancer. Not one. And when they did develop it, the experience seriously up-ended their lives.
So take care of your skin now, while you have the opportunity. A little bit of effort now may save you a terrifying ride on an emotional rollercoaster in the future, and our Palo Alto plastic surgery clinic can help you create a personalized protection plan.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kelly Setoguchi, PA-C
Kelly Setoguchi, PA-C is a certified physician associate and aesthetic medicine specialist with more than eight years of experience in medical aesthetics. As Director of MedSpa Operations at Illuminate Plastic Surgery, Kelly oversees clinician training, clinical operations, treatment protocols, and patient safety standards across the practice’s locations in San Jose, Palo Alto, and Morgan Hill.
Known for her refined aesthetic eye and commitment to natural-looking results, Kelly specializes in advanced injectable and laser treatments designed to help patients age gracefully while maintaining their unique features. Her expertise includes neurotoxins such as Botox and Dysport, biostimulatory treatments including Sculptra, dermal filler, lip filler, and comprehensive full-face balancing. She also performs advanced laser and energy-based treatments including BBL, Moxi, Halo Tribrid, and nonsurgical procedures such as Avéli for cellulite reduction.
Kelly is especially recognized for creating subtle, balanced enhancements that prioritize facial harmony and long-term skin health. Her aesthetic philosophy centers on thoughtful, personalized treatment plans that enhance confidence while preserving natural beauty through every stage of aging.
Education and clinical excellence are central to Kelly’s approach. As a Sciton trainer, she remains at the forefront of laser technology and advanced aesthetic techniques while personally training and mentoring Illuminate’s clinical team. She is responsible for maintaining and updating all clinical policies, protocols, and safety standards to ensure patients receive the highest level of care across every Illuminate location.
Patients throughout Silicon Valley trust Kelly for her honest recommendations, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to combine artistry with evidence-based medicine. By integrating advanced injectables, laser treatments, and preventative aesthetic care, she helps patients achieve refreshed, natural-looking results that never appear overdone.
At Illuminate we’re with you during every step of your journey toward greater self-confidence. Schedule a consultation with us today and let Illuminate’s expert team listen to your concerns and guide you through treatments and procedures to help you reach your individual goals. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating your renewed appearance and realized potential.