Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with over 5 million cases diagnosed each year. While some types, like melanoma, can be life-threatening if left untreated, early detection significantly improves survival rates. Knowing what to look for and when to seek medical attention can make all the difference in maintaining healthy skin. At Donnelley Dermatology, we emphasize personalized care with thorough skin cancer screenings—no rushed visits, just comprehensive attention to your concerns. This guide will help you recognize the early signs of skin cancer and understand when it’s time to get screened.
Understanding Skin Cancer: The Basics
Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the skin’s outermost layer. The three most common types include:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least aggressive type, often appearing as a pearly bump or a sore that won’t heal.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Typically develops on sun-exposed areas as a scaly patch, red bump, or open sore.
- Melanoma: The most dangerous form, capable of spreading quickly to other organs. It often presents as an irregular mole with asymmetry, uneven borders, and color variations.
Even benign-looking growths can turn into skin cancer, making routine skin checks essential for early detection.
Who is at Risk for Skin Cancer?
While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors increase your risk, including:
✔️ Frequent sun exposure (especially without sunscreen)
✔️ Fair skin, light hair, and light eyes
✔️ A history of sunburns (especially in childhood)
✔️ Family history of melanoma
✔️ Using tanning beds
✔️ A weakened immune systemIf you have any of these risk factors, regular skin cancer screenings should be part of your health routine.
Early Signs of Skin Cancer: What to Look For
Skin cancer doesn’t always look dramatic or alarming. It can be a small patch of dry skin or a mole that changes slightly over time. Here’s how to recognize potential warning signs:
1. The ABCDE Rule for Moles (Melanoma)
Melanoma can start as an innocent-looking mole but gradually evolve into something dangerous. Dermatologists recommend using the ABCDE rule to check your moles:
- A – Asymmetry: One half looks different from the other.
- B – Border: Irregular, jagged, or poorly defined edges.
- C – Color: Uneven shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
- D – Diameter: Larger than ¼ inch (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or texture over time.
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a screening immediately.
2. Persistent Sores That Won’t Heal
A sore that bleeds, scabs over, then reopens repeatedly could be basal or squamous cell carcinoma. These non-melanoma skin cancers often appear as:
- Pink or red nodules
- Scaly patches
- A shiny, flesh-colored bump
These often develop on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, scalp, neck, and hands.
3. New or Changing Growths
Any new lump, bump, or mole that suddenly appears or changes in texture should be examined by a dermatologist. Even a small, firm red bump on the lips, hands, or legs could indicate squamous cell carcinoma.
4. Itchy, Tender, or Bleeding Spots
Not all cancerous spots are painless—some may itch, burn, or feel sore. If a freckle, mole, or rough patch suddenly becomes sensitive, it’s worth checking.
When to Get a Skin Cancer Screening
Routine Screenings
✔️ Annual full-body skin exams are recommended for everyone, but especially for those with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or multiple moles.
✔️ If you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, screenings should be more frequent—at least twice a year.
✔️ If you’ve used tanning beds in the past, you’re at a higher risk and should get regular checkups.
Urgent Screenings
Schedule a dermatology visit as soon as possible if you notice:
- A mole or freckle that changes in color, shape, or size
- A sore that doesn’t heal within 2-3 weeks
- A scaly, red, or crusted spot on sun-exposed areas
- Any new growth that appears suddenly
At Donnelley Dermatology, we offer same-day visits for urgent concerns and long, thorough exams to address all of your skin health questions—no rushed appointments, just expert care.
How to Protect Your Skin and Lower Your Risk
While early detection is key, prevention is just as important. Here’s how to protect your skin:
- Use Sunscreen Daily: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ even on cloudy days.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Hats, sunglasses, and UPF-rated clothing shield your skin.
- Avoid Peak Sun Hours: The sun is strongest between 10 AM – and 4 PM.
- Skip Tanning Beds: Artificial UV rays significantly increase melanoma risk.
- Self-Exams Every Month: Check your skin head to toe for any new or changing spots.
Why Choose Donnelley Dermatology for Skin Cancer Screenings?
If you’re looking for expert dermatological care in Manhattan, Donnelley Dermatology provides a direct-pay model with personalized attention:
✔️ Thorough, unrushed screenings – up to one-hour visits
✔️ Same-day appointments for urgent concerns
✔️ Skin cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment
✔️ Removal of benign growths (moles, cysts, and more)
Unlike insurance-driven clinics, our low-volume approach ensures you receive comprehensive care with all your questions answered.
Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening Today
Early detection saves lives. Whether you’re monitoring a mole, concerned about a persistent spot, or due for a routine checkup, Donnelley Dermatology provides expert screenings in Manhattan with same-day visits available. Book your skin exam today by contacting us to schedule a consultation, or visit us at www.donnelleydermatology.com to learn more.