Skin cancer is among the most common cancers, and also one of the most visible, which means early detection is often within your own reach. Most skin cancers are highly treatable when caught early, but they can become serious if ignored. This guide explains how to check your skin, what warning signs to look for, and when to get a professional opinion.
The main types in brief
There are several kinds of skin cancer. The most common types tend to grow slowly and stay local, while melanoma is less common but more likely to spread if not treated early. You do not need to diagnose the type yourself; your job is to notice anything new or changing and have it checked.
The ABCDE rule for moles
A simple way to assess a mole is the ABCDE checklist. Any one of these features is a reason to get a mole looked at.
- A - Asymmetry: one half doesn't match the other
- B - Border: edges that are ragged, blurred, or irregular
- C - Color: more than one color, or uneven shades
- D - Diameter: larger than a pencil eraser (though smaller ones can matter too)
- E - Evolving: any change in size, shape, color, or sensation over time
The 'ugly duckling' sign
Beyond ABCDE, watch for the mole that simply looks different from all your others, or a spot that itches, bleeds, or won't heal. Trust your instinct that something stands out and get it checked.
How to do a self-skin check
Checking your own skin every month or two helps you notice changes early. Do it in good light, after a shower.
- Examine your whole body in a full-length mirror, front and back
- Check your forearms, underarms, palms, and between fingers
- Look at the backs of your legs, the soles of your feet, and between toes
- Use a hand mirror for your scalp, neck, back, and buttocks, or ask someone to help
- Take photos of any spots you want to monitor for changes
Who needs professional screening
Routine clinical skin exams are especially worth discussing if you have:
- A personal or family history of skin cancer
- Many moles or atypical moles
- Fair skin, light eyes, or a history of frequent sunburns
- Significant past sun or tanning-bed exposure
- A weakened immune system
When to act fast
A spot that bleeds repeatedly, grows quickly, changes noticeably over weeks, or a sore that won't heal should be assessed promptly. While skin lesions are rarely a 911 emergency, don't delay a professional review. For any sudden severe symptom unrelated to skin, call 911 (US/CA), 999 (UK), or 112 (EU).
Prevention still matters most
Most skin cancers are linked to ultraviolet exposure. Daily sun protection, broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, shade during peak hours, and avoiding tanning beds, lowers your risk meaningfully while you keep up your checks.
If you have noticed a new, changing, or unusual spot, the safest move is to have it looked at rather than wait and wonder. A clinician can assess it and arrange a closer examination if needed. Connect with a verified doctor on iHealix to review a concerning mole or set up a skin screening plan.