How to Spot Early Signs of Skin Cancer: 5 Key Symptoms to Watch For

Skin cancer is one of the most common and preventable types of cancer worldwide. Recognizing the early signs of skin cancer can dramatically improve outcomes and recovery. Daily exposure to the sun increases our risk, even when we're not thinking about it. By learning what to look for, such as new moles, asymmetrical spots or nonhealing sores, you can take control of your skin health and detect potential threats before they become serious.

In this blog, you'll discover 5 key symptoms of skin cancer, how to perform a self-skin check and when it's time to see a dermatologist. Early detection truly saves lives.

Recognizing Early Skin Cancer Signs

The first line of defense against skin cancer is awareness. Early signs of skin cancer often show up as visible skin changes—especially ones that don’t go away. These may include:

• New growths that appear suddenly
• Patches of skin that are scaly, pale, or yellowish
• Moles that change in shape, size, or color
• Non-healing sores
• Itchy or painful spots that persist

Many people mistake these symptoms for common skin conditions, but it’s crucial to identify when something might be more serious.

The ABCDE Rule for Detecting Melanoma

The ABCDE method is a proven tool for identifying suspicious moles that may indicate melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

A – Asymmetry

If one half of a mole doesn't match the other half in shape or color, it could be a warning sign.

B – Border

Watch out for irregular, ragged, or blurred edges on a mole.

C – Color

Moles with multiple colors (shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue) may signal danger.

D – Diameter

Moles larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) warrant attention.

E – Evolving

Any mole that changes over time—whether in size, shape, color, or texture—should be examined by a professional.

Tip: Use the ABCDE checklist during monthly self-checks to catch abnormalities early.

Symptoms to Watch For

Being proactive starts with knowing what skin cancer symptoms to look out for. Here are the top signs:

• New Moles or Growths: Especially those that appear quickly or change rapidly.
• Persistent Itching or Pain: Irritation in a mole or spot that doesn't resolve.
• Non-Healing Sores: Cuts or sores that last more than a few weeks.
• Redness or Swelling: Inflammation around a mole or lesion.
• Spreading Color: Pigment that bleeds into surrounding skin.
• Bleeding or Crusting: Particularly if a mole starts to ooze or flake.

How to Perform a Skin Self-Exam

Regular self-examinations are key to catching skin cancer early.

Step-by-Step Self-Check:

1. Use a full-length mirror and good lighting
2. Examine your entire body, including:
   1. Scalp (use a handheld mirror or ask for help)
   2. Underarms
   3. Between fingers and toes
   4. Soles of your feet
   5. Under nails
3. Document and photograph existing moles monthly
4. Look for the ABCDE signs in any spot or mole

Frequency: Perform a self-exam once a month for best results.

When to See a Dermatologist

You should schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist if:

• You notice new or evolving moles
• A sore won’t heal
• There’s itching, bleeding, or pain
• A mole shows ABCDE characteristics

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, early-stage melanoma has a 5-year survival rate of over 99%—if detected early.

Annual skin checks are recommended for everyone, especially those over 50 or with higher risk factors.

Schedule an appointment with board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Debra Jaliman today by calling (212) 517-8855.

Top Skin Cancer Risk Factors

Understanding your skin cancer risk helps in prevention. Here are key contributors:

How to Protect Your Skin from Cancer

Prevention is your most powerful tool. Adopt these protective habits:

Use Sunscreen Daily

• Choose broad-spectrum with SPF 30+
• Reapply every 2 hours or after sweating/swimming

Wear Protective Clothing

• UV-blocking shirts
• Wide-brimmed hats
• UV-rated sunglasses

Seek Shade During Peak Hours

• Stay out of direct sunlight from 10 AM to 4 PM

Make It a Habit

• Keep sunscreen in your bag or car
• Schedule reminders for reapplication

Professional Skin Cancer Screenings

In-office skin checks allow dermatologists to:

• Identify unusual moles or growths
• Perform a biopsy if needed

These professional screenings are crucial, especially for those with high-risk profiles. Learn more about Dr. Jaliman's professional skin cancer screening here: https://www.dermatologist-nyc.com/skin-cancer-screening/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I check my skin?

Perform a monthly self-exam, and see a dermatologist annually, or more often if you're high-risk.

What are the first signs of skin cancer?

Look for asymmetrical moles, irregular borders, multiple colors, and non-healing lesions.

Can people with darker skin get skin cancer?

Yes—though less common, it often goes undiagnosed longer, making early detection critical.

Is all sun exposure dangerous?

Even mild, daily sun exposure can damage your skin over time. Always protect yourself.

What Professional Screening Methods Are Available for Detecting Early Signs of Skin Cancer?

Professional skin cancer screening typically involves a full-body skin examination performed by a board-certified dermatologist. During this exam, the dermatologist carefully evaluates any moles, freckles, or skin changes that may indicate early signs of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Studies show that early detection of skin cancer dramatically improves treatment outcomes. In fact, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma—when detected at an early stage—exceeds 99%. This underscores the importance of regular skin checks, particularly for individuals with higher risk factors such as:

• A family history of skin cancer
• Fair skin or a tendency to sunburn easily
• Excessive sun exposure or frequent tanning bed use
• Many atypical moles or previous skin lesions

For optimal results, experts recommend scheduling annual skin cancer screenings with a dermatologist, especially if you're in a high-risk group. Early diagnosis saves lives, making professional screening a crucial part of your skin health routine.

How Often Should You Perform Self-Examinations of Your Skin for Early Detection?

It's recommended to perform a skin self-examination at least once a month to support the early detection of skin cancer. Consistent monthly skin checks help you identify new moles, unusual spots, or any changes in existing moles—key warning signs of skin cancer.

Early detection of skin cancer, especially melanoma, can significantly improve outcomes. According to medical research, when melanoma is detected early, the survival rate is over 99% for localized cases. This makes monthly self-exams a critical component of your skin health routine.

What Specific Features Should You Look for in Moles or Skin Lesions That Might Indicate Skin Cancer?

When assessing moles or skin lesions for signs of skin cancer, use the ABCDE rule, a guideline recommended by dermatologists for early detection of melanoma and other types of skin cancer:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
• B – Border irregularity: The edges are ragged, notched, or blurred.
• C – Color variability: The mole contains multiple colors (shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue).
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation—or new symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or crusting.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, early detection of skin cancer is critical. While melanomarepresents only about 1% of skin cancer cases, it causes the majority of skin cancer deaths.

If you observe suspicious moles or skin changes, consult a board-certified dermatologist immediately.

How Does the Appearance of Skin Cancer Vary Among Different Skin Types and Tones?

The appearance of skin cancer can differ greatly based on skin type and skin tone. In individuals with lighter skin tones, early signs of skin cancer often include new moles or noticeable changes in existing moles, which may appear red, pink, or dark brown. In contrast, those with darker skin tones may develop less obvious symptoms. For example, melanoma—a serious form of skin cancer—may present as dark spots, stains, or areas of discoloration, rather than the more commonly recognized changing moles.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, although melanoma is less common in people with darker skin(only about 1–2% of cases), it is often diagnosed at later stages, leading to worse outcomes. This underscores the importance of recognizing how skin cancer symptoms vary among diverse skin types to ensure early detection and effective treatment.

What Are the Risk Factors for Skin Cancer?

Are there particular risk factors that increase your chances of developing skin cancer? Yes—several key skin cancer risk factors can significantly elevate your risk.

Common Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

• Fair skin – Individuals with lighter skin tones have less melanin, making them more vulnerable to UV radiation damage.
• History of sunburns – Even a single blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.
• Excessive sun exposure – Spending a lot of time in the sun without sun protection greatly raises your chances.
• Use of tanning beds – Artificial UV light from tanning beds is a known contributor to skin cancer, particularly melanoma.
• Family history of skin cancer – If a close relative has had skin cancer, your risk is higher.
• Multiple or atypical moles – Having many moles, or moles with irregular shapes and colors, may indicate an increased risk.

Why Awareness Matters

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. This statistic underscores the importance of understanding your personal risk and taking preventive steps, such as wearing sunscreen, avoiding peak UV hours, and getting regular skin checks.

Take Charge of Your Skin Health

Understanding the early signs of skin cancer and implementing preventive strategies can dramatically reduce your risk. Stay proactive by conducting regular self-checks, using the ABCDE method, and scheduling annual dermatologist visits.

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Don't wait—start protecting your skin today.

If you think you might have skin cancer or want to get checked by a professional dermatologist, give Dr. Debra Jaliman a call today at   to schedule and appointment. Same day appointments may be available depending on her availability.