You know that nagging voice in your head every time you spot a new mole or freckle? The one that wonders, “Should I get this checked out?” That instinct to pay attention to changes in your skin is worth listening to. When it comes to skin cancer, catching it early can make all the difference in your treatment options and outcome.
Let’s talk about skin cancer screenings—what they are, when you need them, and how to make sure you’re protecting your health without becoming overly anxious about every spot on your skin.
What Puts You at Risk for Skin Cancer?
Each person’s risk profile is made up of different puzzle pieces that fit together to create the bigger picture. Some pieces you’re born with, while others develop throughout your life. Skin cancer risk factors include:
- Light skin, hair, or eyes
- More than 50 moles on your body
- History of severe sunburns, especially in childhood
- Regular sun exposure through work or recreation
- Family history of skin cancer
- Previous skin cancer diagnosis
- Weakened immune system
But here’s something many people don’t realize: you can develop skin cancer even if you don’t have these risk factors. That’s why dermatologists recommend regular screenings for everyone, with the frequency based on your personal risk level.
How Often Should You Get Screened for Skin Cancer?
Here’s what dermatologists typically recommend:
For People With No Major Risk Factors
An annual full-body skin exam provides good baseline protection. Like your yearly dental cleaning, it’s preventive care that helps catch potential problems early.
For People With Higher Risk
You’ll want to schedule check-ups every three to six months if you have:
- A previous skin cancer diagnosis
- Multiple atypical moles
- Strong family history of skin cancer
- A compromised immune system
Remember: these are general guidelines. Dr. Prizant will help create a screening schedule that makes sense for your specific situation.
What Happens During a Skin Cancer Screening?
First-time patients often tell us they were nervous about their screening but found it much easier than expected. Here’s what you can expect:
Dr. Prizant will carefully examine your skin from head to toe, including often-forgotten spots like between your toes, behind your ears, your scalp and the soles of your feet.
Dr. Prizant uses a special tool called a dermatoscope, which lets her see patterns and structures in moles that aren’t visible to the naked eye. She will document any spots that need monitoring, creating a baseline map of your moles and marks.
When Should You Get Checked Right Away?
While regular screenings are important, some skin changes shouldn’t wait for your next scheduled visit. You may have heard of the ABCDE rule for checking moles—let’s break down what these letters really mean and what to look for:
The ABCDE Rule Made Simple
- A is for Asymmetry: If you drew a line through the middle of a mole, would both sides match? If not, it’s asymmetrical.
- B is for Border: Look for jagged, uneven, or blurry edges.
- C is for Color: One mole shouldn’t be playing with multiple colors—be wary of different shades within the same spot.
- D is for Diameter: Anything larger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm) deserves attention.
- E is for Evolution: This is the most important one! Any change in size, shape, or color is worth checking out.
But don’t let this list make you paranoid. Not every irregular mole is cancerous, and not every skin cancer follows these rules. When in doubt, get it checked out. Peace of mind is worth a quick visit to a dermatologist.
Be Your Own Skin Expert Between Visits
Monthly self-checks are like homework for your skin health. Find a well-lit room, grab a mirror, and get to know what’s normal for you. The better you know your skin’s typical appearance, the easier it will be to spot when something’s off.
Pro tip: Take photos of spots you want to monitor. Your memory isn’t as reliable as you think, and photos can help you track subtle changes over time.
Making Sun Protection Part of Your Screening Strategy
Getting regular screenings is important, but it’s only half the battle. Sun protection is your daily defense team.
Start by making broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) part of your daily routine. Yes, that includes cloudy days, since UV rays can penetrate cloud cover. Many people skip sunscreen unless they’re heading to the beach, but incidental sun exposure adds up over time. Those quick walks to get lunch or running errands can leave your skin vulnerable if you’re not protected. Set reminders to reapply every two hours when outdoors, or sooner if you’re swimming or sweating.
For the best protection, pair your sunscreen with other sun-smart strategies. Wearing protective clothing when outdoors creates a physical barrier against harmful rays. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses offer extra protection for your face, eyes and the delicate skin around them. Try to plan outdoor activities outside of peak UV hours (10 am to 4 pm) when possible, and seek shade especially during these times.
Simple habits like these, combined with regular skin cancer screenings, give you the best chance at maintaining healthy skin for years to come.
Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening at Prizant Dermatology
Regular screenings are the foundation of long-term skin health. During your first visit, Dr. Tracy Prizant will:
- Map out any existing moles or spots
- Learn about your skin cancer risk factors
- Create your personalized screening schedule
- Show you exactly what to look for during self-checks
Don’t put off this important step in protecting your health. Contact our Pittsburgh office today to schedule your screening. Early detection truly does save lives, and we’re here to help you stay one step ahead of skin cancer.
Remember: The best time to get screened was yesterday. The second best time is today.
