Early Signs of Skin Cancer: How to Perform Effective Self-Checks

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, affecting millions of people annually. Fortunately, early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Conducting regular self-examinations is one of the most effective ways to identify potential skin cancer in its early stages.

This guide will teach you how to spot early signs of skin cancer, conduct thorough self-checks, and adopt habits that help protect your skin and reduce your overall risk.

IN THIS ARTICLE:

1. Understanding the Types of Skin Cancer and Their Risk Factors
2. Preparing for a Skin Cancer Self-Exam
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Skin Self-Exam
4. Recognizing the Early Signs of Skin Cancer
5. When to Consult a Dermatologist
6. How to Prevent Skin Cancer
7. Be Proactive About Your Skin Health
8. Skin Cancer Self-Check FAQs

What Are the Main Types of Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably. The three main types of skin cancer include:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type, BCC originates in the basal cells at the base of the outer skin layer. It typically grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): The second most common type, SCC begins in the outermost layer of skin. It grows faster than BCC and may spread to nearby tissues if untreated.
• Melanoma: The most dangerous form of skin cancer, melanoma starts in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin. Melanomas can develop rapidly and metastasize to other organs.

What Factors Increase the Risk of Skin Cancer?

Certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing skin cancer:

• Chronic exposure to sunlight or tanning beds
• Fair skin, light hair, and light-colored eyes
• A history of severe sunburns, especially during childhood
• A family or personal history of skin cancer
• Having numerous or atypical moles
• A weakened immune system due to medical conditions or medications
• Previous radiation therapy

Performing a thorough skin self-exam requires preparation and attention to detail. To start, gather these essential tools:

• A full-length mirror and a handheld mirror
• Bright, consistent lighting

Choose a quiet, well-lit space where you can take your time. Self-exams should ideally be done once a month. Thoroughly check your entire body, including areas that are hard to see, and document any changes by taking photos or writing notes. This record can help you and your dermatologist track potential concerns over time.

A complete skin self-exam involves inspecting every part of your body, from head to toe. Here’s how to ensure you don’t miss any areas:

1. Check Your Face and Scalp

Examine your face under bright light, paying special attention to your nose, lips, eyelids, and around your eyes. Use a handheld mirror to check your scalp, parting your hair in small sections to spot any unusual marks.

2. Inspect Your Upper Body

Women should inspect their chest, breasts, shoulders, and armpits, while men should focus on their chest, back, and shoulders. Use a handheld mirror or ask for help to view your back and other hard-to-see areas.

3. Examine Your Arms and Hands

Look at the front and back of your arms, wrists, hands, and fingers. Don’t forget to check your palms, nail beds, and the areas between your fingers.

4. Check Your Legs and Feet

Sitting down can help you get a closer look at your legs. Examine your thighs, knees, calves, and shins, as well as your ankles and feet. Check the spaces between your toes and the soles of your feet.

5. Inspect Hard-to-See Areas

Using a handheld mirror, inspect your buttocks, genital area, and the backs of your thighs. For a full view of your back, stand in front of a full-length mirror and use a handheld mirror to see all angles.

How to Use the ABCDE Rule for Melanoma

The ABCDE rule is a reliable method for identifying signs of melanoma:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of a mole or spot doesn’t match the other.
• B – Border: The edges are irregular, notched, or blurred.
• C – Color: Uneven colors, such as black, brown, red, white, or blue.
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, or color over time.

Other Warning Signs of Skin Cancer

In addition to the ABCDE criteria, look out for:

• A mole or spot that looks noticeably different from others on your body (the “Ugly Duckling” sign).
• Non-healing sores or areas that bleed, crust, or ooze for over a month.
• Rapidly growing moles, lumps, or patches of discolored skin.

It’s essential to see a dermatologist if you notice:

• Persistent sores or rough patches that don’t heal
• Moles or spots that change in appearance
• Lumps or growths that seem to appear suddenly
• Any new or unusual skin changes

Regular professional skin checks are critical, especially for individuals at higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Prevention is your best defense against skin cancer. Adopt these habits to protect your skin:

• Stay in the shade or wear protective clothing during peak sunlight hours.
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating.
• Avoid indoor tanning beds entirely.
• Get your vitamin D through safe food sources or supplements.

Skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early. By performing monthly self-exams, taking preventive measures, and scheduling regular checkups with a dermatologist, you can stay ahead of potential skin issues.

If you’re concerned about a spot or lesion, don’t wait. Schedule a professional skin cancer screening with Altitude Dermatology today. Early detection can make all the difference in achieving the best outcomes for your skin health.