When was the last time you took a really good look at your skin? And not just your face; we’re talking about your entire body. Would you be able to recognize a new freckle that wasn’t there a few months ago or a mole that seems darker than it used to be? What about that red bump you thought was a bug bite but has seemed to linger for the last few months?

When it comes to your skin, paying attention to even the smallest changes can make a big difference. While you may think skin cancer will be so obvious that you’ll have no problem detecting it if it pops up, skin cancer might not always present itself in obvious ways, and it’s easy to overlook subtle signs.

Being able to recognize the early warning signals can help you take action before it becomes serious. So let’s dive into the world of skin cancer and learn how you can spot it early.

What to Look For: The Often-Overlooked Signs

Did you know that in the U.S., more than 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every single day? In fact, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Like many other cancers, skin cancer can be a bit of a chameleon, often hiding in plain sight. Here’s what you should watch for:

Mole Changes

Yes, moles are often the first thing we think of when it comes to skin cancer, but it’s not just about new moles. Keep an eye on existing moles that change in size, shape, or color. According to the American Cancer Society, about 100,000 new cases of melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer, are diagnosed annually in the U.S. And those changes in moles can be one of the earliest signs.

Melanomas often look different from other spots on the skin, but can still sometimes be hard to differentiate from a freckle or mole, especially in the early stages. Check out the American Cancer Society’s Skin Cancer Image Gallery for what melanoma can look like.

Scaly or Rough Patches

Dry, scaly patches that don’t go away with moisturizing could indicate something more serious than just dry skin. Actinic keratosis, a pre-cancerous condition, affects about 10 million Americans each year. If a rough area persists, it’s worth having a professional take a look.

Check out the American Cancer Society’s Skin Cancer Image Gallery for what actinic keratosis can look like.

Sores that Don’t Heal

Got a sore that just won’t heal, or one that heals and then reopens? This could be a sign of basal or squamous cell carcinoma. These types of skin cancer make up about 80% of all skin cancer cases and, while usually slow-growing, they can still cause significant damage if left untreated.

Check out the American Cancer Society’s Skin Cancer Image Gallery for what basal or squamous cell carcinoma can look like.

New Growths

Any new bumps, lumps, or growths on your skin deserve attention. Skin cancer doesn’t always look like a mole — sometimes it appears as a small, shiny bump or a firm, red lump. More than 3 million people in the U.S. are diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma every year, and these often manifest as new, unusual growths.

Itching or Tenderness

If a mole, bump, or patch of skin starts itching, hurting, or feels tender to the touch, don’t ignore it. Skin cancer isn’t always painful, but these symptoms can signal changes you’ll want to have evaluated. Research shows that nearly 70% of skin cancers are detected by patients themselves or by family members before seeing a doctor.

The Importance of Regular Skin Checks

The earlier you spot skin cancer, the better your chances of successful treatment. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the five-year survival rate for melanoma is 99% when detected early. Make it a habit to do a monthly self-check. Check any moles, blemishes, or birthmarks from the top of your head to your toes. If you look at your skin regularly, you will know what’s normal for you. It can even be helpful if you write down where on your body you have any markings and take photos of any areas that concern you to help you keep track of any changes the next time you do a skin check.  

If you notice anything out of the ordinary, don’t wait — schedule an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist. Early detection could save your life.

Protect Your Skin and Your Health

Skin cancer might seem scary, but being proactive about your skin health is one of the most empowering things you can do. Use sunscreen daily, wear protective clothing, and stay out of the sun during peak hours to reduce your risk. Experts say that nearly 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

The bottom line? Don’t dismiss those small changes — they could be trying to tell you something important. Stay informed, and stay safe!

Staying on top of your health is not only important to you, it’s also important to us. If you are looking for a doctor, Texas Health Resources offers an easy-to-use tool. Simply choose the specialty, type in your zip code, and select a range. Once a list of physicians appears, you can click on a physician and access contact information, educational background, and a list of insurance plans the doctor accepts.