Early Signs of Skin Cancer
Have you ever noticed a strange mole or spot on your skin and just brushed it off thinking, “It’s probably nothing”? You’re not alone. Most of us have done that. In fact, a friend of mine once joked that her “weird little freckle” had been around so long, it probably had a personality of its own. But a quick check by her doctor revealed it was an early-stage melanoma. Thankfully, it was caught in time, and that’s the key: early detection can save lives.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world. But here’s the silver lining: when caught early, it’s also one of the most treatable. You don’t need to be a dermatologist to spot the early signs. You just need to know what to look for.
What Is Skin Cancer, Really?
Skin cancer happens when skin cells grow abnormally, usually because of DNA damage. This is most often caused by excessive sun exposure or tanning beds. That damage can trigger cells to multiply uncontrollably, forming tumors or lesions.
There are three main types of skin cancer:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common type. It grows slowly and rarely spreads but can damage nearby tissue.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): The second most common. It can spread if not treated and often shows up on sun-exposed areas.
- Melanoma: The most dangerous. It’s less common but can spread rapidly to other parts of the body.
Spotting the Signs: The ABCDE Rule
When it comes to melanoma, dermatologists often use the ABCDE rule. It’s a handy guide you can use at home while checking your skin.
- A – Asymmetry
If you drew a line through the mole, would both halves match? If not, it’s asymmetrical and that’s a red flag. - B – Border
Harmless moles usually have smooth, even borders. If yours has jagged or blurred edges, it’s time to keep an eye on it. - C – Color
Multiple shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue in a single mole? Unusual color variation can be a warning sign. - D – Diameter
Anything larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) is worth checking, especially if it’s changing. - E – Evolving
This might be the most important one. If a mole or spot is changing in size, shape, color, or behavior (itching, bleeding, crusting), don’t ignore it.
Other Signs to Watch Out For:
- A new spot that looks different from others on your skin
- A sore that doesn’t heal or keeps returning
- Itching, tenderness, or pain in a specific spot
- A spot that bleeds or oozes without any injury
- Scaly, rough, or raised patches
Remember, not all skin cancers look the same. Some are subtle and slow-growing. That’s why regular skin checks are your best defense.
When to See a Doctor
Here’s a simple rule
“ if something on your skin doesn’t look or feel right and it sticks around, get it checked.”
Dermatologists can quickly determine if a spot is harmless or needs a closer look, often with a tool called a dermatoscope. In many cases, they’ll do a small biopsy by removing a bit of skin to test under a microscope. If treatment is needed, procedures like skin cancer excision are common and effective..
Even if it turns out to be nothing, the peace of mind is worth it.
How to Protect Your Skin
Prevention is just as important as detection. Here’s how to protect yourself and your family:
- Use sunscreen daily with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days
- Avoid tanning beds as they’re proven to increase skin cancer risk
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when outdoors
- Check your skin monthly in the mirror under good light. Use a hand mirror for hard-to-see places like your back
- Know your family history. If skin cancer runs in your family, be extra vigilant
A full-body check takes just a few minutes and could be the difference between early treatment and a later-stage diagnosis.
You’re Not Being Paranoid, You’re Being Proactive
It’s easy to ignore that odd little spot or tell yourself it’s “just a freckle.” But taking a moment to notice changes and acting on them can make all the difference.
Remember, most skin cancers are curable when caught early. Being aware isn’t about living in fear. It’s about taking control of your health.
So next time you catch a glimpse of your skin in the mirror, take a second look. And if something feels off, trust your instincts.