Skin self-exams are one of the most important steps you can take to detect skin cancer early. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment, making it essential to make skin checks a regular part of your routine in 2021. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but when caught early, it is often treatable with a high success rate. By performing regular self-exams, you can identify any changes in your skin that could indicate the presence of skin cancer.
Why Skin Self-Exams Matter
Skin cancer often develops slowly and may not show obvious signs right away. However, by checking your skin regularly, you can spot early warning signs, such as unusual moles or growths, that may indicate something more serious. Early detection is crucial because skin cancer, particularly melanoma, can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated for too long. Catching it in its early stages allows for more treatment options and significantly improves your prognosis.
Here’s how to perform a skin self-exam with these 5 simple steps:
5 Steps to Perform a Skin Self-Exam
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Find a well-lit area and use a full-length mirror.
Stand in front of a mirror, ensuring you have good lighting. You’ll also need a hand-held mirror to check hard-to-see areas, like your back, scalp, and backs of your legs. -
Examine your face, ears, and neck.
Start by closely inspecting your face, ears, and neck. Look for any changes in moles, freckles, or skin discoloration that might appear unusual. -
Check your arms, hands, and chest.
Carefully examine your arms, hands, and chest. Pay attention to areas like your palms, fingertips, and the space between your fingers, as skin cancer can develop anywhere on the skin. -
Inspect your legs, feet, and groin area.
Using the hand-held mirror, check your legs, feet, and groin area. Don’t forget to examine the soles of your feet and between your toes, where skin changes might go unnoticed. -
Look at your back, scalp, and bottom.
Use a mirror to inspect your back, shoulders, and the back of your legs. For your scalp, use a comb or blow dryer to part your hair, so you can carefully check for any new spots. Ask a partner or loved one to help if necessary.
Why You Should Make Skin Self-Exams Part of Your Routine
Performing regular skin self-exams not only helps detect skin cancer early, but it also helps you become familiar with your skin. You’ll be able to recognize changes or new growths more easily, which is vital in the fight against skin cancer. In addition, performing self-exams regularly may help reduce anxiety about your skin, as you’ll be more proactive about identifying any changes early on.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you spot anything suspicious, such as a mole that changes shape, color, or size, or a new growth that doesn’t heal, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist right away. Early intervention can prevent skin cancer from advancing to a more serious stage, so don’t hesitate to get professional advice if something seems unusual.
If you notice any spots that are new or changing, or if you have any spots that itch or bleed, see on of our board-certified providers.
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