What is a Skin Exam?
A skin exam is a thorough inspection of the skin to identify any abnormal growths, changes, or lesions that may indicate skin cancer or other skin conditions. This can be done by a healthcare professional or through self-examination.
Why are Skin Exams Important?
Skin exams are crucial for the early detection of skin cancer, including
melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Early detection allows for
treatment when the cancer is most manageable and the chances of a full recovery are highest.
How Often Should You Perform a Skin Exam?
It's generally recommended to perform a self-exam once a month. For those at higher risk, such as individuals with a family history of skin cancer, fair skin, or significant sun exposure, more frequent exams may be necessary. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist should also be scheduled annually or more often if advised.
Asymmetry: One half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.
Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
Color: The color is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller.
Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.
Stand in front of a full-length mirror and use a hand-held mirror for hard-to-see areas.
Check your face, ears, neck, chest, and belly. Women should lift breasts to check the skin underneath.
Inspect underarm areas, both sides of your arms, the tops and palms of your hands, and between fingers and nails.
Sit down to examine the front and back of your thighs, shins, tops of feet, and between toes and nails.
Use the hand-held mirror to check the back of your neck, scalp, back, and buttocks.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
If you notice any suspicious changes or new growths on your skin, it’s important to consult a dermatologist promptly. Additionally, if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, regular visits to a dermatologist are essential for professional skin exams.
Ask about your medical history and any skin concerns.
Examine your skin from head to toe, possibly using a
dermatoscope to get a closer look at any suspicious areas.
Discuss any findings and advise on necessary next steps, which may include a biopsy of any suspicious lesions.
Using
sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
Avoiding tanning beds and seeking shade when the sun is strongest (10 AM to 4 PM).
Being mindful of medications that increase sunlight sensitivity.
Conclusion
Regular skin exams, both self-exams and professional check-ups, are vital for early detection of skin cancer. By staying vigilant and consulting healthcare providers when necessary, you can significantly improve your chances of catching skin cancer early when it is most treatable.
