Skin Cancer
Early Detection & Advanced Treatment for Healthier Skin
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S., but with early detection and proper treatment, it is highly curable. Whether you’ve noticed suspicious changes in a mole, new skin growths, or persistent skin irritation, a professional skin exam can help detect and treat skin cancer before it becomes life-threatening.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer develops when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to prolonged sun exposure and genetic factors. It can appear as new growths, irregular moles, or scaly patches and may spread if left untreated. The key to successful treatment is early detection, making regular skin checks and sun protection essential for lifelong skin health.
Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
The most common form of skin cancer, BCC appears as shiny bumps, pink patches, or slow-growing sores. While it rarely spreads, it can damage surrounding tissue if untreated.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Often found on sun-exposed areas, SCC can appear as scaly red patches, open sores, or wart-like growths. It has a higher risk of spreading than BCC and requires early intervention.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer, capable of spreading to other organs if not caught early. It often develops from pre-existing moles or appears as new, irregular dark spots. Using the ABCDE rule(Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolution) helps identify warning signs.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC)
A rare but highly aggressive skin cancer, MCC appears as fast-growing, firm nodules on sun-exposed areas. Early detection and treatment are critical for preventing spread.
Dermatologist-Recommended Skin Cancer Prevention
Skin cancer is largely preventable with the right habits and skin care measures. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays and monitoring changes regularly can significantly reduce your risk.
Use Daily Sun Protection
UV exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, making sun protection a non-negotiable habit.
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
- Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats for added defense.
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM–4 PM) to minimize UV exposure.
Perform Regular Skin Self-Checks
Detecting new or changing growths early is crucial for skin cancer prevention.
- Use the ABCDE rule to identify potential skin cancer warning signs.
- Examine hard-to-see areas, like the scalp, back, and soles of the feet.
- Take note of new growths, sores that don’t heal, or changes in existing moles.
Schedule Annual Dermatologist Skin Exams
Professional skin checks can catch suspicious spots early, before they become dangerous.
- If you have fair skin, frequent sun exposure, or a family history of skin cancer, you may need more frequent screenings.
- Your dermatologist will evaluate moles, perform biopsies if needed, and recommend treatments for precancerous lesions.
Mohs Surgery (Micrographic Surgery)
A precise, layer-by-layer removal technique that ensures complete cancer removal while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.
- Best for high-risk, recurrent, or facial skin cancers.
- Offers a high cure rate (up to 99%).
- Performed under local anesthesia with minimal scarring.
Excisional Surgery
A standard surgical procedure where the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue are removed to ensure complete eradication.
- Effective for melanoma, SCC, and larger BCCs.
- Ensures full cancer removal with clear margins.
- Requires stitches and healing over 1–2 weeks.
Cryotherapy (Freezing)
A non-invasive method using liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy precancerous lesions and early-stage skin cancers.
- Ideal for actinic keratosis (precancerous growths) and superficial BCCs.
- Causes the treated area to scab and heal naturally.
- Quick treatment with minimal downtime.
Topical Chemotherapy & Immunotherapy
Specialized prescription creams that target cancer cells without surgery, commonly used for superficial skin cancers.
- Topical 5-FU (Fluorouracil) destroys abnormal skin cells.
- Immunotherapy creams like Imiquimod stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.
- Effective for early-stage skin cancers with minimal scarring.
FAQs
How serious is skin cancer?
While highly treatable when caught early, some types, like melanoma, can be life-threatening if left untreated.
What does skin cancer look like?
It can appear as new growths, irregular moles, scaly patches, sores that don’t heal, or firm lumps.
Who is at the highest risk for skin cancer?
People with fair skin, frequent sun exposure, a history of sunburns, or a family history of melanoma have a higher risk.
Can skin cancer be prevented?
Yes! Daily sun protection, regular skin checks, and avoiding tanning bedssignificantly reduce the risk.
Does skin cancer spread?
Some types, like melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma, can spread to lymph nodes and internal organs if untreated.
Is skin cancer removal painful?
Most procedures use local anesthesia, making them virtually painless.
Will skin cancer removal leave a scar?
Some minor scarring may occur, but dermatologists use advanced techniques to minimize marks.
What should I do if I notice a new or changing mole?
Schedule a dermatologist exam immediately to rule out potential skin cancer.
How often should I have a skin cancer screening?
Most adults should have a professional skin exam once a year, or more frequently if they have high-risk factors.
Still Have Questions?
Early Detection Saves Lives—Get a Skin Exam Today
If you’ve noticed suspicious moles, new growths, or non-healing skin lesions, schedule a consultation with our dermatology team for a comprehensive skin cancer screening.
Dermatologists
Tessa Cervantes MD
Dermatologist
Dr. Cervantes specializes in comprehensive care for diverse skin types.
Tessa Cervantes MD
Dermatologist
Dr. Cervantes specializes in comprehensive care for diverse skin types.
Milton Moore MD
Dr. Moore is a seasoned dermatologist known for his innovative approach and dedication to excellence. With a focus on comprehensive skin health, he’s committed to delivering exceptional outcomes for every patient.
Testimonials
Transformative results with professional care and expertise.
