Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, yet many cases are highly treatable when detected early. After 25 years of Dermatology experience, I can tell you that one of the most important things patients can do is pay attention to changes in their skin.
The most common type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Basal cell carcinomas often appear as a shiny, pearly or pink bump, a pink patch, or a sore or bump that repeatedly heals and then returns. Some may look like a small mole or have tiny visible blood vessels on the surface. Basal cell carcinomas typically grow slowly, but if left untreated, they can invade and damage surrounding tissue.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer. These lesions often present as rough, scaly patches, crusted growths, wart-like bumps, or sore bump that does not heal. They may become tender, bleed easily, or develop a persistent scab. They can “come and go” as well so don’t be tricked. Squamous cell carcinomas can grow fast and more aggressively than basal cell carcinomas and should be evaluated promptly by a dermatologist.
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer because it has the potential to spread or metastasize to other internal parts of the body with few warning signs. Melanomas frequently appear as a new dark spot or a changing mole that becomes darker over time or irregularly shaped. Remember the ABCDE warning signs: A- asymmetry, B-borders- are the borders even or irregular? C- colors- is it evenly colored or does it have 2 or more colors in it? D- diameter greater than 6 mm or the size of a pencil eraser. This doesn’t always mean sticking up like a pencil eraser but flat and wider than a pencil eraser. E-evolution. Is it changing over time?
The most important message I can share is this: Anything that is growing, changing, bleeding, or not healing or comes and goes, needs to be evaluated by a dermatologist. A sore that repeatedly scabs, bleeds, or never completely resolves should never be ignored. Early detection can make a tremendous difference in treatment outcomes.
At Misty Med Spa and Skin Rx, although we primarily do cosmetic and aesthetic treatments, our commitment to skin health remains at the heart of everything we do. I have caught many skin cancers while people are in my chair. We believe that healthy skin is beautiful skin, and we are dedicated to helping our patients reduce their risk of skin cancer through education, prevention, early recognition, and reversal of damage.
If you notice a spot that concerns you, do not wait. Schedule a skin evaluation with a dermatology professional. When it comes to skin cancer, early detection truly saves lives. If you’re seeing me, ask me to check any spots you have! Visit us at Mistymedspa.com.
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