Observing changes in your skin supports overall health awareness. Regular self-checks and professional evaluations help you stay proactive about your skin. Understanding what to look for can help you catch changes before they become serious health concerns. Here are a few of the early signs of skin cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is one of the most common types of skin cancer and is often linked to sun exposure. It generally develops in areas with frequent sunlight, such as the face, scalp, ears, neck, chest, back, arms, and legs. These growths may appear as small, pearly bumps with visible blood vessels, flat scaly patches with raised borders, or open sores that repeatedly heal and reopen. Some may bleed easily when touched or scraped, drawing attention to persistent changes in the skin.
Although basal cell carcinomas grow slowly and rarely spread to other parts of the body, they can extend around nerves and nearby structures, potentially causing local tissue damage. Many growths have a waxy or translucent appearance. Some may develop a central depression or ulceration over time. Specific lesions appear as red, irritated patches resembling eczema but do not respond to typical skin treatments, making it helpful to monitor any persistent skin changes.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, with ultraviolet light exposure as the primary risk factor. Areas of skin that receive frequent sunlight are the most likely locations for development, making sun protection a key preventive measure. Early detection supports timely management and reduces potential complications.
These cancers often start as rough, scaly patches called actinic keratoses, which can feel like sandpaper when touched. Over time, they may progress into firm, red nodules or flat lesions with crusty surfaces. Squamous cell carcinomas differ from basal cell types in their potential to spread beyond the initial site.
Lesions may appear as persistent rough patches that bleed when scraped, open sores that do not heal within several weeks, raised growths with central depressions, or wart-like growths that develop quickly. They often feel tender or painful and may form thick, crusty surfaces that bleed or ooze. Surrounding skin may appear red or inflamed, showing the value of prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.
Melanoma Skin Awareness
Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer and can develop from existing moles or appear as new dark spots on previously normal skin. The ABCDE method can help identify suspicious changes in moles or spots: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter, and Evolution. Melanomas can develop anywhere on the body, including areas not typically exposed to the sun. Some lack pigment and appear as flesh-colored or pink growths.
Pay attention to moles that become itchy, tender, or painful, as well as changes in surface texture, such as scaling, oozing, or bleeding. Some melanomas develop rapidly within weeks or months, while others evolve slowly over years. A healthcare professional should evaluate any mole that looks different from your other moles.
Check Skin Cancer Today
Dermatologists identify skin cancer through thorough skin examinations and, when needed, tissue sampling for laboratory analysis. Regular professional checks support early detection, improving treatment outcomes, as most skin cancers respond well when caught promptly. Documenting changes with photographs helps track developments over time and aids your dermatologist in assessment. Schedule a professional skin evaluation today to have any suspicious growths reviewed promptly.
