What Does Skin Cancer Look Like? Signs, Pictures, and When to See a Doctor

In Brief

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, but when caught early, it’s highly treatable. The challenge? It often starts subtly — a new spot, a changing mole, or a patch of skin that just doesn’t heal. Knowing what to look for could save your life. In this guide, we’ll explain the different types of skin cancer, their visual signs, and when you should get checked by a healthcare professional.

Table of Contents

• Types of Skin Cancer

• Early Warning Signs

• The ABCDE Rule for Moles

• When to See a Doctor

• Prevention Tips

• FAQ

• Conclusion

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer, each with distinct appearances:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Often appears as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat flesh-colored lesion, or a sore that heals and returns.

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): May look like a firm red nodule, a scaly patch, or a crusted sore.

• Melanoma: The most dangerous form, often starts as a mole that changes in size, shape, or color.

Early Warning Signs

Watch for:

• A new growth on the skin.

• A mole that changes color, size, or shape.

• A sore that doesn’t heal.

• Redness or swelling beyond the edge of a mole.

• Itching, tenderness, or pain in a spot that wasn’t there before.

The ABCDE Rule for Moles

Dermatologists use the ABCDE method to spot suspicious moles:

• A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.

• B – Border: Edges are irregular, blurred, or jagged.

• C – Color: Multiple colors or uneven pigmentation.

• D – Diameter: Larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

• E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms over time.

When to See a Doctor

See a dermatologist promptly if you notice any suspicious changes. Early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Prevention Tips

• Limit sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily.

• Use protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.

• Avoid tanning beds.

• Perform monthly skin self-exams.

FAQ

1. Can skin cancer appear anywhere on the body?
Yes, it can appear even on areas not exposed to the sun, like the soles of the feet or under the nails.

2. Does skin cancer hurt?
Not always — some skin cancers are painless, which is why visual checks are essential.

3. Can young people get skin cancer?
Yes, although risk increases with age, melanoma is one of the most common cancers in young adults.

4. How often should I check my skin?
Monthly self-exams and annual professional skin checks are recommended.

5. Can sunscreen completely prevent skin cancer?
It significantly reduces risk but does not eliminate it — combining sun protection measures is best.

Conclusion

Skin cancer can look different from person to person, but knowing the warning signs and checking your skin regularly is key to early detection. Learn the ABCDE rule, protect your skin from UV damage, and see a dermatologist if you notice any changes.

💡 Action step: Schedule a skin check this month, early action could save your life.