Q. How do I perform a skin self-examination for early detection of skin cancer?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Performing regular skin self-examinations is a valuable tool for early detection of skin cancer. By monitoring your skin and looking for changes in moles, freckles, and other skin lesions, you can identify potential warning signs. Here's how to conduct a skin self-examination:
1. Choose a Well-Lit Room: Ensure you have good lighting and a full-length mirror to see your entire body clearly.
2. Use a Hand Mirror: A hand mirror can help you see areas that are hard to view directly.
3. Undress Completely: Remove all your clothing so that you can examine your skin thoroughly. Check your face, neck, chest, back, arms, hands, legs, feet, and even your genitals.
4. Examine Your Face: Start with your face. Use a hand mirror to check your neck, ears, and scalp. Part your hair to check the scalp.
5. Check Your Upper Body: Stand in front of the full-length mirror and examine your front, back, and both sides. Lift your arms to inspect your underarms.
6. Inspect Your Lower Body: Raise your arms and bend them at the elbows. Check your forearms, upper arms, and hands. Examine your thighs, shins, feet, and between your toes. Use a hand mirror to inspect your back and buttocks.
7. Look at Your Nails: Examine your fingernails and toenails for any discoloration, irregularities, or new growths.
8. Check Moles and Skin Spots: Pay special attention to moles, freckles, and other skin spots. Use the "ABCDE" rule to assess them:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't match the other.
- Border irregularity: The edges are not well-defined or have irregular shapes.
- Color variation: The mole has multiple colors or has changed in color.
- Diameter: Any mole larger than a pencil eraser (about 6 mm or ¼ inch) may be of concern.
- Evolving: If a mole or spot changes in size, shape, color, or begins to itch or bleed, it should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
9. Note Any New or Changing Lesions: Make a record of any new or changing moles, freckles, or skin lesions. Document their location, size, color, and any other relevant details.
10. Don't Forget Hidden Areas: Remember to check less visible areas like your scalp, the soles of your feet, and between your fingers and toes. Ask a family member or use a second mirror if needed.
11. Seek Professional Help: If you notice any concerning changes, make an appointment with a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
Performing skin self-examinations on a regular basis, ideally once a month, is crucial for catching potential skin cancer early when it is most treatable. If you have a history of skin cancer or other risk factors, consider more frequent self-exams and professional skin checks.
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