An actinic keratosis is a type of precancerous skin lesion that typically appears as a localized rough, scaly patch. If untreated, they may later develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer and typically presents as a localized red shiny patch, shiny pink bump, or non-healing sore on the skin. These skin cancers typically spread locally at a slow rate in areas that have received chronic sun exposure over many years such as the face, neck, or hands. These skin cancers are important to treat as they can spread although usually only locally in the body.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer and typically presents as a firm scaly pink bump on the skin. These skin cancers typically spread locally at a slow rate in areas that have received chronic sun exposure over many years such as the face, neck, or hands. These skin cancers have a higher chance of spreading throughout the body than basal cell carcinomas and thus it is important to identify and treat them quickly to prevent an effect on your overall health.
Melanoma is the third most common form of skin cancer and one of the most aggressive skin cancers. It is caused when there is an uncontrolled growth of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) in the skin. Melanoma may present as an irregular appearing mole or odd-shaped or colored brown-black patch on the skin. This skin cancer can spread very rapidly throughout the body and affect one’s overall health so it is very important to diagnose and treat melanoma as soon as possible
FAQ
At what age does skin cancer typically occur?
Skin cancer can occur at nearly any age, but typically becomes more likely with increased age and prolonged sun exposure. Most skin cancers typically affect people older than 50 and even more so after 65.
Can a dermatologist tell if you have skin cancer?
Yes, after physically visually examining the abnormal skin area in question, a dermatologist will determine whether there is a concern for skin cancer and typically obtain perform a few tests or even take a skin biopsy to send to the lab to accurately diagnose the type of cancer or skin condition.
Does skin cancer hurt to the touch?
Some forms of skin cancer, including melanoma, can itch or be painful to the touch. In general, however, most skin cancers do not hurt to touch.
Does sunscreen stop skin cancer?
Protecting your skin by applying a broad-spectrum high-SPF sunscreen every time you spend time in the sun outside is an essential way to help protect your skin health and potentially lower your risk of developing skin cancer.
Can skin cancer go away by itself?
Skin cancer does not go away on its own and almost always needs some form of treatment to be safely removed so that it does not progress and affect your overall health.
