More than one million people are diagnosed with skin cancer every year, but the survival rate is 99% when the disease is caught and treated early. Monthly self-checks are a key part of early detection. Although you should schedule an annual skin exam with your doctor, regular inspection allows you to spot irregularities or changes to your skin right away so that you can tell the doctor. Here are a few tips for conducting a thorough self-exam.

How to Check Your Skin for Signs of Skin Cancer

1. Examine Existing Moles & Spots

Start the exam by checking your existing moles and birthmarks for any changes. Take note if it has changed size, color, or shape, or if it has grown. Check for any new or worsening symptoms, such as bleeding, itching, or tenderness. 

2. Examine Your Entire Body

Using a mirror in a well-lit room, check your chest, shoulders, face, neck, and ears. Women should lift their breasts to check underneath. Look carefully at your arms, including your hands and fingernails. Look at your legs and feet as well. 

Using a hand mirror, check your back for any changes. You may need to get a friend or family member to help. Lift your arms and check your underarms and sides. Don’t overlook the backs of the legs and the back of the neck and take note of any new spots or sores. 

3. Don’t Overlook Melanoma Hiding Spots

Melanomas and symptoms of skin cancer can hide in places that may never see the sun, such as between your toes. During your check, don’t overlook these hiding spots. Check behind your ears, between your buttocks, and around your genitals for signs of cancer. 

4. Use a Blow Dryer

The scalp is another common hiding place for skin cancer. Check for spots and moles by using a comb to part your hair, or a blow dryer set on low to move your hair around. Enlisting help for this part can help you spot signs you might otherwise miss. 

5. Keep Track of What You Find

Before your self-check, download and print a “body map” from the American Academy of Dermatology, or ask your dermatologist for one. A body map is a blank drawing of the body where you can mark the location of any suspicious spots you identify during the self-exam. It also allows you to track the appearance of spots over time so you can spot trouble early. 

If you need to schedule an annual skin cancer exam, or if your own check has revealed something of concern, make an appointment with a dermatologist at Central Carolina Dermatology of High Point, NC. These doctors serve patients throughout the Triad area, and specialize in treatments to keep your skin healthy. They also have offices in Kernersville and Lexington. Visit their website for more information or call (336) 887-3195 to set up an appointment.