What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Screening
- Summerlin Dermatology
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
Why Regular Skin Checks Are Especially Important in Las Vegas
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to prioritize your skin health—especially here in Las Vegas, where year-round sun exposure can significantly increase your risk.
Even if you wear sunscreen regularly, cumulative sun exposure over time can lead to skin damage and an increased risk of skin cancer. The good news is that when caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable. That’s why routine skin exams are one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health.
At Summerlin Dermatology, we provide thorough, professional skin cancer screenings in a comfortable and supportive environment—so you know exactly what to expect every step of the way.
What Is a Skin Cancer Screening?
A skin cancer screening is a visual exam of your skin performed by a trained dermatology professional. The goal is to identify any unusual moles, spots, or lesions that may need further evaluation.
These screenings are quick, non-invasive, and can play a critical role in detecting skin cancer at its earliest—and most treatable—stage.
What Happens During Your Appointment?
If you’ve never had a skin cancer screening before, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to expect. The process is simple and straightforward.
1. Review of Your Medical History
Your provider may ask about:
Personal or family history of skin cancer
Sun exposure habits
Any specific spots or changes you’ve noticed
2. Full-Body Skin Exam
A provider will carefully examine your skin from head to toe, including:
Face, scalp, and ears
Arms, legs, and torso
Hands, feet, and nails
This allows us to check for any unusual or changing areas that may need closer attention.
3. Evaluation of Moles or Spots
If anything looks suspicious, your provider may:
Take a closer look using specialized tools
Monitor the area over time
Recommend a biopsy if needed
Most screenings do not require any additional procedures, but if they do, everything will be clearly explained before moving forward.
What Should You Look for at Home?
Between professional screenings, it’s important to monitor your own skin. Watch for:
New moles or growths
Changes in size, shape, or color
Irregular borders
Spots that itch, bleed, or don’t heal
A helpful guideline is the ABCDE rule:
Asymmetry
Border irregularity
Color variation
Diameter (larger than a pencil eraser)
Evolving (changing over time)
If you notice any of these changes, it’s a good idea to schedule an evaluation.
How Often Should You Get a Skin Check?
For most adults, an annual skin exam is recommended. However, you may need more frequent screenings if you:
Have a history of skin cancer
Have many moles or atypical moles
Have fair skin or a history of sunburns
Spend significant time outdoors
Living in Las Vegas, where UV exposure is high throughout the year, makes regular screenings even more important.
Early Detection Can Make All the Difference
Skin cancer is one of the most common—and most preventable—types of cancer. The key is catching it early.
A simple screening can provide peace of mind and help ensure that any concerns are addressed before they become more serious.
📞 Call us at 702-243-4501 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your skin cancer screening at Summerlin Dermatology.
