Summer often means more time outdoors — at the lake, on the golf course, in the garden, at youth sports, or simply enjoying longer days outside. It is also the season when many people start noticing new spots, changing moles, or areas of skin that look different after more sun exposure.
Taking a few minutes to pay attention to your skin can make a meaningful difference. Many skin cancers are highly treatable when found early, and some concerning spots can be identified during a short, focused skin exam. While a full-body skin check is important for many patients, a focused “spot check” can be helpful when there is one specific mole, bump, patch, or lesion that is new, changing, bleeding, or not healing.
A good rule of thumb is to look for the ABCDEs of melanoma:
A — Asymmetry: one half does not match the other
B — Border: edges are irregular, blurred, or uneven
C — Color: multiple colors or unusual darkening
D — Diameter: larger than a pencil eraser, though melanomas can be smaller
E — Evolution: any change in size, shape, color, or symptoms
It is also important to remember that not every skin cancer looks like a classic dark mole. A pink, scaly patch, a pearly bump, a sore that does not heal, or a spot that repeatedly bleeds or crusts can also deserve attention. The most important sign is often change — or a spot that simply looks different from the others.
Summer is also a good time to revisit sun protection habits. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin, and apply enough to get full coverage. Reapply every two hours when outdoors, and sooner after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Sunscreen is helpful, but it works best as part of a broader routine.
Protective clothing can be just as important. Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and UPF-rated shirts or cover-ups help protect areas that are easy to miss, including the scalp, ears, neck, chest, and shoulders. For children, UPF swim shirts and hats can be especially useful during long stretches outside.
Skin awareness does not need to be complicated or scary. It simply means knowing what is normal for your skin, noticing changes, and getting a professional opinion when something does not look or feel right.
When in doubt, it is always best to ask. If something on your skin does not look or feel right, the team at Clarus Dermatology can take a closer look with a focused spot check and guide you on any next steps. To book an appointment, visit clarusdermatology.com or call 612.213.2370.
Meet Your Provider: Megan Bell, PA-C
Megan Bell is a board-certified physician assistant with extensive experience in medical dermatology. She treats patients of all ages for acne, eczema, rashes, psoriasis, and skin cancer. Megan is known for her clear communication, calm approach, and deep commitment to patient care. She is the lead provider at Clarus Dermatology’s new Hugo clinic.
Clarus Dermatology is now open in Victor Gardens South in Hugo.
Call (612) 213-2370, visit clarusdermatology.com, or scan the QR code in our ad to schedule your appointment today!
