Why Routine Skin Checks Are Important
Skin checks play a crucial role in detecting issues such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other types of skin cancer as early as possible. Catching concerns early can greatly improve treatment outcomes and even save lives.
When Should I Start Getting Skin Checks?
Ideally, start annual professional skin checks in your early 20s. However, those with additional risk factors might want to begin even sooner. Monthly self-examinations can begin at any age—early familiarity with your skin will make it easier to spot abnormal changes over time.
Who Should Get Skin Checks?
While everyone benefits from regular skin checks, certain factors increase your risk of skin cancer, including:
Family history of skin cancer
Excessive sun exposure or frequent use of tanning beds
Having fair skin, freckles, or light-colored eyes
Having multiple moles or unusual growths
If any of these factors apply to you, annual skin checks with a dermatologist are especially important, alongside monthly self-checks at home.
Preparing for Your Annual Skin Check
Here are a few steps you can take to prepare for your appointment to ensure it’s as effective as possible:
Remove nail polish or makeup prior to the exam so every area can be examined.
Wear loose-fitting clothing for easy access to your skin.
Be ready to share any personal or family history of skin cancer.
Note down any moles, spots, or changes you’ve observed and bring them to your dermatologist’s attention.
Remember, at Summerlin Dermatology, we're here to help, so don't feel shy about voicing your concerns.
What Happens During a Routine Skin Check?
A professional skin check is a simple, non-invasive process typically lasting around 10 minutes. Your dermatologist will conduct a head-to-toe examination of your skin, looking for abnormal spots, lesions, or moles.
Here's what you can expect during your visit:
Initial Questions: Your dermatologist will ask if you’ve noticed any changes or areas of concern. Don't hesitate to point out anything that stands out—it’s critical to ensure nothing is missed.
Full-Body Exam: Using their eyes and sometimes a dermatoscope (a magnifying device with a light), your dermatologist will inspect areas like your face, scalp, neck, chest, back, arms, legs, hands, and feet.
Assessment: Unusual spots will be evaluated using the "ABCDE" rule (explained below).
If a Suspicious Lesion is Found:
Your dermatologist may recommend a biopsy. This quick, painless procedure involves removing a small tissue sample for analysis in a pathology lab. If the lesion is found to be cancerous, a treatment plan, such as surgery to remove the rest of the growth, will be provided.
How to Conduct Monthly Self Skin Checks
Monthly at-home skin checks can help you identify changes early. Follow these tips to ensure you're thorough and effective.
Use Proper Lighting: Choose a bright room with a full-length mirror and handheld mirror.
Inspect Your Whole Body: Pay close attention to commonly overlooked areas like your scalp, behind your ears, between your fingers and toes, and the bottoms of your feet.
Follow the "ABCDE" Rule:
A – Asymmetry: Look for moles or spots that are uneven or irregular in shape.
B – Border: Check if borders are blurry or jagged instead of smooth and well-defined.
C – Color: Be cautious of multiple colors in a single mole, or unusual shades like black, red, blue, or dark purple.
D – Diameter: Growths larger than a pencil eraser (6mm) may be cause for concern.
E – Evolution: Keep track of changes in size, shape, color, or texture over time.
If you notice anything unusual, contact us here at Summerlin Dermatology for an evaluation immediately.
Related Treatments
Final Thoughts – Be Proactive
Routine skin checks are an easy yet vital step in safeguarding your health. Whether it’s scheduling a yearly exam or committing to monthly self-checks, these small habits can make a big difference. Early detection and treatment save lives.
Call us at (702) 243-4501 or Request an Appointment online to schedule your annual skin check today!
Routine Skin Checks
Routine Skin Checks
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, yet it's also one of the most preventable with early detection. A routine skin check by a dermatologist at Summerlin Dermatology—paired with regular self-examinations—can make a world of difference. If you're new to the concept of routine skin checks or unsure how to conduct one yourself, this guide is here to help.