Signs of Skin Cancer & Prevention
Sunlight offers incredible benefits for mental and physical health — but, like anything, too much can cause harm. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause skin damage and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. So it’s important to protect your skin before and during your time outside.
We’re primed to think about sun protection when we’re enjoying the sunshine during hot summer months. But skin cancer prevention is important all year long.
“Even in winter, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of skin cancer,” says Steven Chen, MD, MPH, MHPEd, a dermatologist and co-director of the Cutaneous Lymphoma Program at Mass General Cancer Center. “It’s one of the most common types of cancer, but it’s very treatable if you catch it early.”
In this article, Dr. Chen discusses important signs of skin cancer to watch for and shares skin cancer prevention tips you need to stay safe in all four seasons.
Early signs of skin cancer
When it comes to identifying skin cancer, it’s important to understand that skin cancers are not all the same. There are 3 main types of skin cancer:
Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas together are called either nonmelanoma skin cancers, or keratinocytic carcinomas. Generally, providers easily take care of these with straightforward skin surgery or other methods of local treatment.
As for melanoma, although it is the least common of the 3 types, it is the deadliest. Rates of melanoma have been on the rise for the last 30 years, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). The rising rates are linked to intense exposure to harmful radiation like UVA and UVB rays and habits like indoor tanning.
Signs of melanoma skin cancer
When doctors look for signs of melanoma skin cancer, they use the ABCDEs:
- Asymmetry. Watch for spots that are not symmetrical on your body, like if half of a mole or birthmark doesn’t match the other half.
- Border irregularity. The borders of a mole should be fairly smooth. If they’re jagged, for example, that’s a sign it should be checked.
- Color irregularity. Examine moles to see if any contain multiple shades of brown or black, or irregular colors like pink, red, white, blue, or blue-black.
- Diameter. Healthy moles are usually no larger than 6mm in diameter — about the size of a pencil eraser.
- Evolution. One of the most crucial factors in evaluating a mole is whether the mole is changing over time. A doctor should check your mole if it changes in color, size, or shape, or if it starts to feel painful, tender, or itchy.
Signs of basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma may present differently than melanoma. It may appear as:
- A small, fleshy bump or skin tag
- An open sore that does not heal
- A smooth growth that dimples in the center
- A lump with a waxy or pearly appearance
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of cancer according to The Skin Cancer Foundation. Fortunately, it’s also very treatable, especially if caught early. A primary care provider (PCP) or dermatologist can find basal cell carcinoma at an early stage by performing skin checks.
“You can also do monthly skin self-exams to check for signs of basal cell carcinoma and other skin cancers,” says Dr. Chen. “If you have a spot that looks like a pimple that just won’t go away, or if it’s bleeding, itching, or painful, it’s good to get it checked out.”
Signs of squamous cell carcinoma
An estimated 1.8 million people are diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma each year, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation. It’s the second most common type of skin cancer.
Squamous cell carcinoma affects the skin cells, called keratinocytes, which are found in the top layer of the skin (known as the epidermis). It’s most often caused by exposure to UV rays from the sun and in tanning beds. In most cases, doctors can remove and treat squamous cell carcinoma. The earlier the cancer is caught, the better the odds of successful treatment.
Squamous cell carcinoma lesions may look like rough, reddish patches on the skin that grow quickly. They may resemble warts. They can also start to bleed and hurt if left too long. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma can metastasize (go to other organs and lymph nodes) if not treated, so it’s important to have a provider evaluate you if you’re worried.
Is itchy skin a sign of cancer?
Itchy skin can be a warning sign of cancer — but itching isn’t an immediate cause for concern.
There are many other reasons you could be experiencing itchy skin, including, but not limited to:
- Dry skin, especially during winter when it’s harder to keep your skin hydrated
- Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, or hives (among others)
- Insect bites
- Allergic reactions
- Reaction to medication
If you’re concerned about a spot on your skin or a rash that is causing you to itch, contact your dermatologist or your PCP. They can help determine the cause of your itch and help you take steps to stop it.
Are skin tags a sign of cancer?
Skin tags are not a sign of skin cancer. In fact, they are benign growths that mostly form in areas where your skin creases or rubs against itself (such as your armpits, neck, under the breasts, or eyelids). Skin tags are typically quite small. They’re approximately the size of a small pebble, but they can occasionally grow to be larger.
However, if you notice a new growth that looks like a skin tag, but it’s causing symptoms or bleeding without any friction or trauma, it’s still worth consulting with your doctor. That’s because some skin cancers can look like skin tags in rare cases. It’s best to get an expert opinion to evaluate these concerns.
How to prevent skin cancer
There’s no sure-fire way to prevent skin cancer. But there are ways you can lower your risk of skin cancer. According to Dr. Chen, these are the top 3 tips for skin cancer prevention:
- Wear sunscreen that protects you from UV radiation, both UVA and UVB. The sun protection factor (SPF) is a good measure of protection from UVB, which tends to cause burning. “We recommend at least SPF 30, but since most people don’t put enough sunscreen on, the higher the SPF, the better,” says Dr. Chen.
You should actually use a “shot glass” full of sunscreen to the whole body every time you apply it. Also look for sunscreen that is broad-spectrum protection against UVA, and water-resistant. Reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours, and don’t forget to apply it to your scalp, ears, neck, and feet.
Practice sun safety. Wearing sunscreen isn’t the only way you can help prevent skin cancer. Try to stay in the shade, cover your skin with clothing, and wear a wide-brimmed hat as much as possible. Use extra caution between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun’s UV index is highest; your risk of sunburn is also increased near snow, water, and sand, because the sun reflects off of them.
Get your skin checked. While not everyone needs a regular skin check, dermatologists recommend them if you’re at higher risk of skin cancer. This routine screening helps doctors detect cancer earlier, when it’s easier to treat. You may be at higher risk if you have a family history of skin cancer, have had a lot of sun exposure, or have a history of sunburns or tanning.
The AAD estimates that 1 in 5 Americans develops skin cancer. While it’s more common in people with a lighter natural skin color, skin cancer can affect all skin types, including darker skin. If you’re concerned, you should see a board-certified dermatologist for evaluation.
Does sunscreen prevent skin cancer?
Sunscreen is a key tool in reducing your risk of certain skin cancers, but it’s not guaranteed to completely prevent skin cancer. To ensure you’re getting the most protection possible, it’s crucial that you apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on a daily basis. Be sure to reapply any sunscreen every 2 hours, and immediately after sweating or swimming.
Taking care of your skin during the summer is important — but year-round skin protection is critical to skin cancer prevention. If you have questions about skin cancer, or are concerned for yourself or a loved one, please reach out to your doctor for more support.
“It’s important to remember that skin cancer is usually treatable and curable,” says Dr. Chen. “The key is prevention and early detection. If you have a spot you’re worried about, it’s a lot easier to take care of it early – so don’t delay and see a board-certified dermatologist.”
