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Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting nearly 1 in 5 people in their lifetime. Early detection is key—and a simple monthly skin self-exam can help you spot changes before they become serious.
Whether you’ve had sun damage, used tanning beds, or just want to protect your health, here’s how to perform a skin check at home and what signs to look for.
Why Self-Exams Matter
Many types of skin cancer develop slowly and are treatable when found early. A monthly skin self-exam can help you identify:
- New growths or lesions
- Moles that change in appearance
- Spots that don’t heal or bleed easily
If you catch these signs early, your provider can recommend the right next steps—including biopsy or referral to a specialist.
How to Do a Skin Self-Exam
You’ll need:
- A full-length mirror
- A handheld mirror
- Bright lighting
Follow these steps:
- Stand in front of the mirror and examine your face, neck, chest, and stomach. Women should lift breasts to check underneath.
- Raise your arms and check your underarms and both sides of your torso.
- Look at your hands, including your palms, backs, fingers, and under the nails.
- Sit down to check the front and back of your legs, top and bottom of your feet, and between your toes.
- Use a handheld mirror to check your back, buttocks, and genital area.
- Use both mirrors or ask someone to help you check your scalp. Use a comb or hair dryer to move hair aside.
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What to Look For: Signs of Skin Cancer
Skin cancers vary in appearance. They can look like moles, scaly patches, red bumps, or non-healing sores. They most often appear on sun-exposed areas like the face, arms, and neck—but can develop anywhere.
Common warning signs:
- A new growth that’s changing in size, color, or texture
- A sore that doesn’t heal after several weeks
- A rough, scaly red patch that may crust or bleed
- A mole that looks different from others (called the “ugly duckling” sign)
- A wart-like growth
- A mole with uneven borders or multiple colors
Use the ABCDEs of Melanoma
Check your moles for these key warning signs:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other
- B – Border: Irregular or blurred edges
- C – Color: Multiple colors or uneven tones
- D – Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser (>6mm)
- E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation
If you notice any of these signs, contact your provider for an evaluation.
Tips for Effective Skin Checks
- Perform self-exams once a month, ideally after a shower or bath
- Take note of all birthmarks, moles, and spots
- Use a ruler or take photos to monitor changes over time
- Ask a partner or family member to help check hard-to-see areas
- Report any itching, bleeding, or new pain in a skin spot to your doctor
When to See a Doctor
If you find anything suspicious during your self-exam—such as a new mole, changing growth, or sore that won’t heal—it’s time to see a provider. Early diagnosis can make a major difference in outcomes.
At BASS Medical Group, our Primary Care providers and cancer specialists offer comprehensive skin cancer screening, referrals, and care coordination.
Book a Skin Check with BASS Medical Group
Don’t wait to address suspicious spots or changing moles. Schedule a visit with a provider at BASS Medical Group in Walnut Creek or throughout the Bay Area to protect your skin and your overall health.
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