Not all skin spots are equal—some are harmless, others are not. Moles, skin tags, and growths may develop over time due to genetics, the sun, or aging. Most are harmless, but a few can be indicative of underlying health conditions. Understanding the differences is critical for early detection and treatment.
Why Regular Skin Checks Matter
Skin cancer and skin conditions are more easily treated if discovered early. Regular Skin Examinations by a professional can help identify suspicious moles, unusual growths, and other abnormalities that can pass along unnoticed otherwise.
Key Benefits of Regular Skin Checks
- Early Detection of Skin Cancer – Detecting abnormal moles or lesions early increases the likelihood of effective treatment.
- Tracking Changes in Moles – Some moles change, and these changes can indicate potential health problems.
- Preventative Dermatology – A skin check examines for sun damage and offers counsel on sun protection practices.
- Peace of Mind – Healthy skin is less stressful, and advance health planning can be undertaken.
- Identification of Other Dermatoses – Apart from cancer, skin checks identify infection, allergy, and chronic conditions like psoriasis or eczema.
What to Expect During a Skin Exam
A formal skin examination is an easy, painless procedure in which a dermatologist or health care professional carefully evaluates your skin.
Steps during a Skin Exam:
- Medical History Check – Discussion of past skin issues, sun history, and history of skin cancer in your family.
- Full-Body Scan – A complete scan of the skin, including more concealed areas of the body like the back, scalp, and between toes.
- Mole and Spot Analysis – Inspection of the moles and any odd mole-like growth on the skin in an attempt to record any danger present.
- Photographs and Monitoring – In case it is considered to be a concern, photographs can be taken of suspect moles for future reference.
How Often Should You Have a Skin Check?
- Once a Year – A yearly skin examination is recommended for most people.
- Every 6 Months – Individuals with higher risk factors may require more frequent checks.
- Self-Checks Monthly – Home monthly self-examinations help detect any changes early.
How to Do a Self-Skin Check at Home
Between doctor’s appointments, monitor your skin for changes with a simple self-exam:
- Stand in front of a bright mirror in a lighted room.
- Use a hand mirror to examine your face, ears, and scalp.
- Check your arms, hands, and between fingers.
- Check your back, chest, and abdomen.
- Check your feet, legs, and between your toes.
- Place a mark over any new or changing spot and report them to a dermatologist.
Reasons You Should Book a Skin Test Right Away
If you notice any of the following, book an appointment with a dermatologist right away:
- A changing mole in size, shape, or color
- A new growth or spot that develops suddenly
- A sore that doesn’t heal in a few weeks
- A mole or spot that itches, bleeds, or hurts
- A dark streak beneath a nail that wasn’t caused by trauma
How Dermatologists Evaluate Skin Cancer Risk
Dermatologists evaluate your skin cancer risk using several factors, including:
- Your history and family history of skin cancer.
- The size and kind of moles on your skin.
- Your exposure and history of sunburning patterns.
- Presence of precancerous skin changes, including actinic keratosis.
What if a Removal Growth is suspicious?
- Laboratory Test: Removed growth is shipped in for review to seek cancer cells.
- Benefits of Early Detection: Early detection increases rates of treatment success.
- Further Evaluation: Other testing could be performed when needed for accurate diagnosis.
- Treatment Planning: Based on results, the dermatologist may suggest additional therapy or surveillance.
- Follow-Up Care: Regular skin checks avoid potential risks and ensure maximum skin health.
Can a Removed Spot Return?
The majority of skin growths will not recur after professional removal, but some may come back if not completely destroyed. Pigmentation conditions or pre-existing skin diseases may result in recurrence of similarly appearing spots. Regular screening identifies changes before they become an issue.
Schedule a Professional Skin Test
Regular skin examinations are essential to maintain your skin’s health and detect any problems before they become serious issues. If you notice any symptoms, don’t wait, visit our professionals to have your skin in the best condition possible.
