Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and it is also one of the most treatable when found early. A regular skin exam is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself — but how often do you need one?
It depends on your risk
There is no single schedule that fits everyone. Your dermatologist will recommend an interval based on factors like these:
- A personal history of melanoma or other skin cancers
- A family history of melanoma
- Many moles, or moles that look unusual
- Fair skin that burns easily, or a history of blistering sunburns
- Past tanning bed use or significant outdoor sun exposure
- A weakened immune system, including after organ transplant
People with higher risk are often seen once or twice a year, or more often after a skin cancer diagnosis. People with lower risk may be checked less frequently, with any new or changing spots evaluated promptly in between.
Know your ABCDEs
When you look at a mole, these features can be warning signs of melanoma:
- A — Asymmetry: one half doesn't match the other.
- B — Border: edges are irregular, ragged or blurred.
- C — Color: several shades of brown, black, red, white or blue.
- D — Diameter: larger than about 6 mm (the size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can be smaller.
- E — Evolving: any change in size, shape, color, or new symptoms like itching or bleeding.
Also watch for an “ugly duckling” — a spot that looks different from your other moles — and any sore that doesn't heal.
How to do a monthly self-check
- Use good lighting, a full-length mirror and a hand mirror.
- Check your face, ears, neck, scalp (a hair dryer helps part the hair), chest, arms, hands and under the nails.
- Check your back, buttocks and legs, including the soles of your feet and between your toes.
- Take phone photos of moles you want to monitor so changes are easier to spot.
Skin cancer in skin of color
Skin cancer is less common in darker skin, but it is often diagnosed later, when it is harder to treat. Melanoma in people with darker skin often appears on the palms, soles, under the nails or inside the mouth. Every skin tone benefits from regular checks.
Don't wait for your next scheduled exam if a spot is new, changing, bleeding or simply worries you. Have it checked.
Learn about skin checks and skin cancer screening at our four NYC offices, or request a skin exam.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation. If you have questions about your skin, please request an appointment with a dermatologist.