What is skin cancer and what you need to know about it?

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged by ultraviolet (UV) rays from repeated sun exposure and sunburns. Exposure to UV radiation from tanning beds and sunlamps can also increase skin cancer risk. The two most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). They are slow-growing and seldom spread to other parts of the body. Both can be treated, but they can be disfiguring.

Melanoma is the most dangerous skin cancer. Though less common—accounting for about 1% of skin cancers—melanoma is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths. Melanoma is fast-growing and more likely to spread than BCC and SCC.

Skin cancer develops primarily on areas of sun-exposed skin, such as the scalp, face, ears, neck, lips, chest, arms, hands, and legs. But it also can form in other areas like the palms, beneath the fingernails and toenails, and genitals.

Besides overexposure to UV rays, other factors that increase one’s risk for skin cancer include having:

Skin Care and Repair

New information on treatments for both medical skin conditions and cosmetic problems is available in the Special Health Report Skin Care and Repair. This report describes scientifically approved treatments for common medical conditions from acne to rosacea, as well as the newest cosmetic procedures for lines, wrinkles, age spots, and other problems. An explanation of the ingredients in popular skin lotions and cosmeceuticals is also included.  

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

Skin cancers commonly appear on the most sun-exposed areas of the body, like the face, ears, neck, lips, and backs of the hands. They can also develop in scars, skin sores, or rashes elsewhere on the body. Here is what common skin cancers look like. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC). BCCs usually appear as tiny, painless bumps with a pink, pearly surface. As it slowly grows, the center of the bump may become sore and develop into a crater that bleeds, crusts, or forms a scab. Although it is commonly located on the face, basal cell cancer can develop on the ears, back, and neck. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). SCCs usually begin as a small, red, painless lump or skin patch that slowly grows and may develop into a non-healing sore. It usually occurs on the head, ears, and hands.

Melanoma. Melanoma is usually visible as a single dark skin spot. It may appear anywhere on the body, but it most commonly develops on the back, chest, and legs. Most of the time, melanoma develops on normal-looking skin, but it can grow out of an existing mole. Following the ABCDE guideline is a good way to recognize the warning signs for possible melanoma.