Stay Ahead of Skin Cancer: A Simple Guide to Skin Checks

It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. More than two people die of skin cancer every hour in the U.S. However, when spotted early, skin cancer is highly treatable. Dermatologists generally recommend performing a full-body skin check every six months to monitor changes, spot abnormalities, and prevent skin cancer. While skin checks can be worrisome and time-consuming, SkinCheck is here to guide you. Feel free to use the full-body skin scan feature to help you complete your semiannual check. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to conduct a thorough skin check, understand its benefits, and learn why it’s essential for everyone.

Why Perform a Comprehensive Skin Check?

Skin serves as the body’s largest organ, protecting against external elements and providing a barrier against infection. However, various conditions can develop on the skin, ranging from noncancerous moles to potentially life-threatening cancer. Detecting skin changes early significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and management. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting a Skin Check at Home

1. Choose a Well-Lit Area: Select a room with natural light or use a bright lamp to ensure clear visibility.
2. Undress Completely: To examine your entire body, remove all clothing and stand in front of a full-length mirror.
3. Examine Front of Body: Start with the face, neck, and chest. Use a handheld mirror to check hard-to-see areas like the scalp and ears.
4. Inspect Arms and Hands: Look at the front and back of each arm, including underarms, elbows, and palms.
5. Check Torso and Back: Use a hand mirror to examine your back and torso, or ask a family member for assistance.
6. Inspect Legs and Feet: Examine both legs, including thighs, knees, shins, and feet (including soles and between toes).
7. Review Hair and Nails: Check hair for changes in texture or new growths. Examine nails for discoloration, growths, or changes in shape.
8. Use a Magnifying Glass: For a closer look at potential spots, use a magnifying glass to inspect moles or other spots more thoroughly.
9. Document Findings: Use the SkinCheck app to take photos/notes on any moles, spots, or skin changes to track over time. Find out more about ABCDEs here.
10. Seek Medical Advice: Consult a dermatologist promptly if you notice any concerning changes in a mole, such as asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color, itching, bleeding or changes in size or elevation. New bumps that hurt, bleed, or are scaly may also need to be evaluated.

Why Everyone Should Perform Skin Checks Regularly

Skin cancer rates continue to rise globally, making early detection more critical than ever. Everyone, regardless of age or skin tone, can benefit from regular skin checks. Risk factors like family history, sun exposure, and certain medical conditions may heighten the need for more frequent monitoring.

By integrating a regular full-body skin check into your routine, you prioritize your health and well-being. Remember, early detection saves lives. Make it a habit to perform multiple skin checks a year, understand your skin’s normal appearance, and promptly seek medical advice if you notice any changes or concerns.

Empower yourself with knowledge and proactive health practices. Regular skin checks are a small effort that can make a big difference in protecting your health and well-being.