Skin Cancer
Early detection. Effective treatment.
Are You At Risk For Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer worldwide, affecting 1 in 5 Americans over their lifetime. While no one is immune, the good news is that it’s often preventable and highly treatable when detected early. The first step toward protecting your health is a professional skin screening with a board-certified dermatologist or one of our experienced providers at Elite Skin.
How To Spot The Signs Of Skin Cancer
Like most medical conditions, skin cancer is far easier to treat when identified early, which makes staying vigilant essential. Regular self-examinations—ideally once a month—are a key part of this process. Use a full-length mirror to examine your entire body, becoming familiar with the location and appearance of your moles, freckles, and other skin markings. This awareness will help you recognize any new developments or changes over time. If you notice anything concerning, don’t wait—consult a healthcare provider promptly.
It’s also important to understand that not all skin cancers present as new or enlarging growths. Some may appear as non-healing sores, areas of discoloration, or subtle changes in texture. That’s why routine full-body skin cancer screenings with a trained professional remain an essential part of early detection.
Skin Cancer Screenings
Skin cancer screenings are quick, painless, and play a vital role in maintaining your skin health. During these evaluations, our providers conduct a comprehensive assessment of all skin surfaces, combining years of specialized expertise with advanced diagnostic tools such as dermoscopy to detect subtle inflammatory conditions and identify early malignant or pre-malignant lesions.
If a suspicious area is found, a biopsy may be recommended. This simple procedure is performed under local anesthesia, allowing us to safely remove a small tissue sample for further evaluation in the laboratory.
Should a diagnosis of skin cancer be confirmed, we will take the time to thoroughly explain your results and discuss individualized treatment options, ensuring you feel informed and supported every step of the way.
FAQs
A monthly self-examination of your skin is an important part of early detection. If you notice any new or changing spots, it’s a good time to schedule a professional skin exam.
For individuals with a history of melanoma, the risk of developing additional melanomas is significantly higher. In these cases, it’s essential to work with your dermatologist to establish a personalized and consistent skin cancer surveillance plan.
Our skin cancer screenings involve a full-body examination, which requires you to undress completely. To make this process easier, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing. Rest assured, your privacy is a top priority—exams are conducted in private rooms, and you will be provided with a gown or drape for modesty. For the most thorough evaluation, we ask that you avoid wearing makeup or nail polish, as these can obscure certain skin findings. We also recommend wearing your hair loose to allow for a proper examination of the scalp.
Screenings can vary in length depending on the need for a biopsy, but most take around 10 minutes.
While darker skin tones have more natural melanin, which offers some protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, this does not eliminate the risk of developing skin cancer. In fact, when skin cancer occurs in individuals with darker skin, it is often diagnosed at a more advanced stage, leading to worse outcomes. Skin cancers in darker skin types also tend to develop in less sun-exposed areas—such as the palms, soles, under the nails, and inside the mouth—making regular self-examinations and professional screenings just as important.
Common Skin Cancers
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) accounts for over 80% of all skin cancers. Although it can occur anywhere on the body, it most commonly arises in areas with high ultraviolet (UV) exposure—such as the head, neck, and arms. While BCC is rarely life-threatening, it is locally destructive, invading surrounding skin, soft tissue, and even bone if left untreated.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most common type of skin cancer, typically develops in areas with frequent sun exposure such as the face, ears, neck, torso, and arms. Unlike some other skin cancers, SCC can penetrate more deeply and spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
Melanoma
Although melanoma accounts for only about 1% of all skin cancer diagnoses, it is the most dangerous form due to its potential to spread rapidly. Melanomas can develop anywhere on the body and often begin as a changing mole or new dark spot. Known risk factors include sunburns and UV exposure from tanning. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical, as melanoma can quickly metastasize to lymph nodes and internal organs, where it poses the greatest threat.
Common Skin Cancers
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) accounts for over 80% of all skin cancers. Although it can occur anywhere on the body, it most commonly arises in areas with high ultraviolet (UV) exposure—such as the head, neck, and arms. While BCC is rarely life-threatening, it is locally destructive, invading surrounding skin, soft tissue, and even bone if left untreated.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most common type of skin cancer, typically develops in areas with frequent sun exposure such as the face, ears, neck, torso, and arms. Unlike some other skin cancers, SCC can penetrate more deeply and spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
Melanoma
Although melanoma accounts for only about 1% of all skin cancer diagnoses, it is the most dangerous form due to its potential to spread rapidly. Melanomas can develop anywhere on the body and often begin as a changing mole or new dark spot. Known risk factors include sunburns and UV exposure from tanning. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical, as melanoma can quickly metastasize to lymph nodes and internal organs, where it poses the greatest threat.
Skin Cancer Experts
Our staff is adept at discovering and treating skin cancers. Dr. Bergman alone has received advanced training in skin cancer management and surgical reconstruction using the Mohs micrographic surgical technique, with over 7,000 completed surgeries.
If you believe you may need a skin screening, book an appointment with Elite Skin today!
