May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating people about the risks of skin cancer and the life-saving value of early detection. At Dermatology Group of the Carolinas, serving Concord, Salisbury, and Huntersville, we emphasize the importance of routine skin cancer checks as a proactive measure to protect your health.
Why Skin Cancer Checks Matter
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. However, when detected early, it is highly treatable. Regular skin checks allow dermatologists to catch suspicious moles, lesions, or growths before they become more serious.
Risk factors for developing skin cancer can include:
- Fair skin, light eyes, and light hair
- A history of sunburns or excessive sun exposure
- Use of tanning beds
- Family or personal history of skin cancer
Our Concord, Salisbury, and Huntersville dermatologists are trained to recognize subtle changes that could indicate early skin cancer, giving you the best chance for successful treatment.
Common Types of Skin Cancer
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- Most common and least dangerous type.
- Appears as a pearly or waxy bump, often on sun-exposed areas.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- May look like a firm red nodule or a scaly, crusted lesion.
- Often develops on the face, ears, neck, and hands.
- Melanoma
- The most serious form of skin cancer.
- Typically appears as a new mole or changes to an existing mole.
- Early detection is critical for survival.
Signs to Watch For
Remember the ABCDE rule when examining moles and skin spots:
- Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
- Border: Edges are irregular or blurred.
- Color: Multiple colors or uneven distribution.
- Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or color.
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our team in Huntersville, Concord, or Salisbury right away.
How Often Should You Get a Skin Cancer Check?
- A baseline skin exam can be helpful to determine if you would benefit from annual skin checks.
- Annual or more frequent skin checks may be recommended if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer or lesions with symptoms such as moles or skin growths that are changing size, shape, or color.
- Self-exams at home once a month can help catch changes early between professional screenings.
What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Check
At your appointment with a Concord, Salisbury, or Huntersville dermatologist, the process will include:
- A full-body examination from scalp to soles.
- Evaluation of moles, spots, and lesions.
- Biopsy of any suspicious areas for further evaluation.
Skin cancer checks are minimally invasive and could save your life.
Protecting Your Skin Between Visits
Prevention is just as important as detection. Protect your skin by:
- Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily.
- Seeking shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
- Avoiding tanning beds completely.
Schedule Your Skin Check Today
Don’t wait until you notice something unusual. Routine screenings are your best defense against skin cancer. Our expert team at Dermatology Group of the Carolinas in Concord, Salisbury, and Huntersville is here to help you stay proactive about your skin health.
Call us at (704) 784-5901 or request an appointment online to schedule your annual skin cancer check today. Your skin deserves the very best care!
