What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer happens when skin cells grow in an unusual way, often because of too much sun or UV exposure. It's one of the most common types of cancer, but it's also very treatable when found early.
Look out for signs like:
- New bumps or spots on your skin
- Moles that change in size, shape, or color
- Sores that don’t heal
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with millions of cases diagnosed each year. There are several types of skin cancer, but the most common are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. It's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of skin cancer, as early detection can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Prevention Stars with Protection
Sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer. Fortunately, you can reduce your risk by taking simple steps:
- Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants, and wide-brimmed hats
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) — reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating
- Avoid tanning beds
- Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest
Common Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
The most common type of skin cancer. BCC typically appears on sun-exposed areas such as:
- A shiny bump
- A pink patch
- An open sore or scab that doesn't heal
Risk Factors:
- Long-term sun exposure
- Tanning bed use
- Fair skin
- Family history of skin cancer
- Weakened immune system
Treatment:
Surgery is the most common option. In delicate areas, Mohs Surgery may be used to preserve healthy tissue while removing all cancer cells.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
The second most common type, SCC often looks like:
- A scaly red patch
- A sore that won't heal
- A raised bump with a central depression
Risk Factors:
- Long-term sun exposure
- Tanning bed use
- Fair skin
- Weakened immune system
- Exposure to certain chemicals (like arsenic)
Treatment:
Surgery is the most common option, but similar to basal cell carcinoma, Mohs Surgery may be recommended, especially if the cancer is more aggressive.
Melanoma
The most serious form, melanoma can appear anywhere—even in areas not typically exposed to the sun. It may look like a changing dark spot or bump on the skin, but it can also be pink, red, or white.
This type of cancer is more likely to spread and most likely develops in the pigment-making cells found in the epidermis (skin). Melanoma is highly curable when caught early but has the potential to grow and spread if left untreated.
Risk Factors:
- Intense sun exposure, especially with blistering sunburns
- Tanning bed use
- Fair skin
- Family history of melanoma
- Weakened immune system
- Many atypical moles
Use the ABCDE’ rule to spot melanoma:
- Asymmetrical: one half doesn't match the other
- Border: edges are irregular or blurred
- Color: multiple shades or unusual colors
- Diameter: larger than 6mm (pencil eraser size)
- Evolving: changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms
Treatment:
Surgery is the first-line treatment. Advanced melanoma may require additional therapies like immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation.
Diagnosis & When to See a Doctor
Consult your provider if you notice:
- A sore that won't heal
- A mole or spot that meets the ABCDE criteria
- Sudden or unusual skin changes
If necessary, your provider will perform a biopsy—a minor procedure where a small tissue sample is taken and analyzed.
Treatment Options
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
- Mohs Surgery: High cure rate and tissue preservation
- Topical Treatments (in select cases)
- Cryotherapy or Laser Therapy
Melanoma and Advanced Cases
Learn More
Visit these trusted resources to learn more about skin cancer:
