What does skin cancer look like?How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer

By: Afton Cobb, MD, FAAD

Skin cancer is an extremely common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. If skin cancers are not diagnosed and treated early, they can be deadly. Recognizing the early signs and symptoms is crucial for timely intervention and effective treatment. In this blog post, I will delve into the different types of skin cancer and discuss what they may look like, so you know what to look out for and when to seek professional evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist.

Understanding the Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. Each type has distinct characteristics, and early detection is key to successful treatment. There are also other more rare types of cancers that can affect the skin. In general, skin lesions that are new, scaly, growing/changing, or bleeding warrant evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist. 

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell cancers often appear as a pearly or waxy bump. Sometimes they just look like a scar, persistent wound, or a pink scaly patch. Some may have visible blood vessels or a central ulceration. They are most frequently found on sun-exposed areas like the face and neck (especially the ears and nose) but can occur in other areas, as well. They are typically painless, but may catch your attention by growing and bleeding. 

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma usually presents as a scaly pink bump. Sometimes, it is more firm or red, and other times it is more of a flat lesion with a scaly or crusted surface. Occasionally, it even looks like a persistent wound or ulcer. SCC typically develops on sun-exposed areas, especially the scalp, face, ears, hands, and legs. 

Melanoma

Melanoma is typically characterized by an irregularly shaped mole or spot. Melanoma may have uneven edges and a variety of colors, including shades of brown, black, or even red. Melanomas often exhibit asymmetry, meaning one half looks different from the other. One way to potentially identify melanoma is by the “ugly duckling sign,” which means to look out for the skin lesions that look different than all the rest. Melanoma is often larger in size compared to benign moles, but when detected early can also be small. Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, including on areas not exposed to the sun such as the genitals and the hands and feet. 

Warning Signs

While the above descriptions provide a general overview, it's essential to be aware of certain warning signs that could indicate skin cancer:

• Changes in Size, Shape, or Color: Any mole or spot that undergoes changes in size, shape, or color should be evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist.

• Itching or Bleeding: Persistent itching, tenderness, or bleeding from a lesion may be a cause for concern.

• New Growth or Sore: The appearance of a new growth, sore, or spot that doesn't heal warrants attention.

Summary

Being proactive about skin health involves regular self-examinations, awareness of your skin's normal appearance, and seeking professional medical advice if you notice any concerning changes. Remember, early detection of skin cancer greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. If you have any doubts or concerns about your skin, consult with a board-certified dermatologist who can provide personalized guidance and conduct a thorough examination. Your skin is a valuable asset, and understanding what skin cancer looks like is a crucial step in its protection and well-being.