More often than you might believe, skin cancer is more lethal if left untreated. It may start as a harmless mole, spot, or sore. However, if nothing is done, it has the potential to spread, create scars, and even be fatal. The issue is… Many people ignore the early symptoms of skin cancer until it is too late. Here is a guide to help you change it.
We will explain what is skin cancer, the different kinds to look out for, the signs you should not ignore, and how you can start taking charge of your skin health immediately.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is a disease where abnormal skin cells grow out of control. It usually starts in the top layer of the skin, called the epidermis. This happens when skin cells are damaged—mostly by ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds—and begin to change. Over time, these damaged cells can form tumours. Some types grow slowly and stay in one place, while others can spread to deeper tissues or organs if not treated early. Catching skin cancer at an early stage gives the best chance of a full recovery.
The three major types of skin cancer are:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Melanoma
These are often referred to as non-melanoma and melanoma skin malignancies taken together. According to the studies by PubMed Central, 1 in 5 people will develop NMSC (BCC/cSCC) in their lifetime. Let us review everyone individually.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are different skin cancer types, each with its symptoms, risks, and ways of getting it. The three most often occurring forms are Melanoma, squamous, and basal cell carcinoma. Understanding how they differ is key to recognising the signs of early stage skin cancer and seeking prompt treatment.
Let us examine every one of them closely.
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
The most often occurring form of skin cancer is BCC. It starts in the basal cells, tiny, spherical cells in the lower epidermis. Basal cell carcinoma can cause damage to nearby skin and tissue but rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
Common signs of BCC:
- A shiny bump or nodule
- A flat, flesh-coloured lesion
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- A lesion with visible blood vessels (telangiectasia)
It may look like a skin tag or sore that won’t heal. BCC often shows up on the face from years of sun exposure even without sunbathing.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
SCC is the second most prevalent kind of skin cancer. It begins among the surface-covering squamous cells of the skin. Usually, it shows up in areas of the body exposed to lots of sunlight, which affects the face, ears, neck, and hands.
Warning signs include:
- A firm, red bump
- A scaly, crusted patch
- A flat sore with a scab
- A wart-like growth
Bowen’s disease is an early, non-invasive form of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in situ. It shows up as a persistent red, scaly patch on the skin. Here is an image to give you clear understanding.
3. Melanoma
Melanoma arises from melanocytes, the cells that generate melanin—pigment. Melanoma might show up as a new dark spot or arise from a present mole. Cancer Research UK expects a record 20,800 cases this year, climbing from 19,300 in 2020–2022.
Early signs of melanoma:
- Irregularly shaped mole
- Uneven colour (shades of black, brown, red, or pink)
- Size larger than 6 mm
- Evolving shape, size, or colour
It’s often found on the back, legs, arms, or face. Early diagnosis is critical for survival.
Early Signs of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer doesn’t always hurt. But it often shows on the skin. The sooner you spot it, the easier it is to treat. Here are the signs to look out for:
1. New or Changing Spots
Look for new lumps or patches that don’t go away after 4 weeks.
Watch for moles that change in shape, size, or colour. A mole with uneven edges or more than one colour can be a warning sign.
2. Sores That Won’t Heal
Skin cancer could show up as a sore that bleeds, scabs, or stays open for weeks. This is particularly true if it seems pale, crusty, or shiny.
3. Odd Texture or Colour
- A pink growth, a glossy lump, or a flat, scar-like patch could all be how basal cell carcinoma presents itself.
- Usually presenting as a hard lump, red patch, or wart-like development, squamous cell carcinoma is somewhat rough.
- Melanoma can show up as a dark mole with erratic hues ranging from brown to black, red to white.
4. Follow the ABCDE Rule for Melanoma
Not sure what is skin cancer or how to spot it? The ABCDE rule is a simple way to check your moles for early signs. Here’s what to look for:
A – Asymmetry: One half looks different from the other
B – Border: Uneven or jagged edges
C – Colour: More than one colour in the mole
D – Diameter: Bigger than 6mm (but smaller ones can also be risky)
E – Evolving: The mole is changing fast
Pro Tip- Also Watch for the Ugly Duckling Sign
Most of your moles will look similar. If one stands out—looking different from the rest—it could be the “ugly duckling” and needs to be checked by a doctor.
5. Itching or Pain
A mole or patch that itches, burns, or feels sore—even if it looks normal—should be checked.
What does early skin cancer look like? These skin cancer pictures early stages help you spot it. Some seem harmless, but recognizing these minor indications early can make all the difference.
Where to Look
Skin cancer often shows up on sun-exposed areas like the face, arms, neck, and hands. But it’s important to know it can also appear in unexpected places—such as in between the hairline, palms, soles, under the nails, or even between the toes. These areas are sometimes overlooked, especially in darker skin tones, where signs can be harder to spot.
SkinVision can help you if you’re not sure about a spot or can’t easily get to a doctor. It’s an easy way to check your skin and get advice, which is great if you’re behind on care or need help in between visits.
When to See a Doctor
If you see a mole or spot that suddenly develops, changes rapidly, or hasn’t healed in few weeks, see a doctor. Track changes using mirrors or clear pictures; a ruler placed close to the mole will help determine any increase over time.
Pro Tip: In some areas, it can take weeks to see a dermatologist. But with skin cancer, time really matters. If you’re unsure about a mole or waiting for your appointment, the SkinVision app can help. It uses medically proven AI to check for early signs of what is skin cancer, offering quick guidance and peace of mind while you wait for expert care.
What Causes Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer develops when errors (mutations) occur in the DNA of skin cells. These mutations cause the cells to grow uncontrollably and form a mass of cancer cells. The primary factor responsible for most skin cancers is ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can come from natural sunlight or artificial sources like tanning beds and sunlamps.
1. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation
The sun emits different types of UV radiation UVA, UVB, and UVC. Of these, UVA and UVB rays are the main culprits in skin cancer formation.
- UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging and DNA damage over time.
- UVB rays are more intense and directly damage the DNA in skin cells, causing sunburns and playing a major role in skin cancer development.
According to Cancer Research UK, nearly 90% of melanoma cases are linked to overexposure to UV radiation. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) also classifies UV radiation from sunlight and artificial tanning devices as a Group 1 carcinogen, the highest-risk category.
In fact, the research notes that approximately 17,000 melanoma cases reported annually could have been prevented through proper UV protection.
2. History of Sunburns
Sunburns, especially severe or blistering ones during childhood or adolescence, significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.
Each incident of sunburn damages the DNA in the skin cells. Over time, the accumulation of this damage makes it more likely for mutations to occur during cell division, leading to cancerous changes.
Research from the American Academy of Dermatology suggests that even one blistering sunburn during childhood can double a person’s chance of developing melanoma.
3. Fair Skin and Low Melanin Levels
People with fair skin, light-colored eyes (blue, green), and blonde or red hair have less melanin the pigment that provides some protection against UV radiation.
- Melanin absorbs and disperses UV rays, acting as a natural defense mechanism.
- Without adequate melanin, UV radiation can more easily damage DNA in skin cells.
Thus, individuals with lighter skin are at much higher risk for all forms of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
4. Weakened Immune System
A weakened immune system whether due to medical conditions like HIV/AIDS, autoimmune diseases, or immunosuppressive medications (such as those taken after an organ transplant) increases vulnerability to skin cancer.
- The immune system plays a crucial role in detecting and destroying abnormal cells before they become cancerous.
- If immune surveillance is compromised, it becomes easier for damaged or mutated cells to survive and multiply unchecked.
Patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or long-term corticosteroid use are also considered high-risk.
5. Family History and Genetic Factors
Having a close relative (parent, sibling, or child) with a history of melanoma or other skin cancers raises your personal risk.
- Some inherited genetic mutations, such as those affecting the CDKN2A and BRAF genes, can make individuals more prone to developing melanoma.
- Genetic predisposition does not guarantee cancer, but it significantly amplifies susceptibility, particularly when combined with environmental risk factors like UV exposure.
6. Exposure to Carcinogenic Substances
Apart from UV radiation, certain chemical exposures are known to contribute to skin cancer development.
- Arsenic, a toxic substance found in contaminated drinking water, some pesticides, and industrial environments, is strongly linked to skin cancers, particularly squamous cell carcinoma.
Other industrial chemicals like coal tar, paraffin, and certain oils can also elevate risk with prolonged exposure.
Risk Factors
Some people are more susceptible to skin cancer owing to genetics, lifestyle, or environmental exposure. Knowing these risk factors will enable you to remain more sensitive to early skin cancer symptoms and act preventatively. The main groups at more risk are listed here.
- People with fair skin, freckles, red or blonde hair, or light-coloured eyes – Their skin has less melanin, offering less natural protection from UV damage.
- Anyone with 50 or more moles, or several atypical (unusual-looking) moles – These moles are more likely to become cancerous.
- Individuals with a personal or family history of skin cancer – Especially those who have had melanoma or other skin cancers before.
- Outdoor workers or those with frequent sun exposure – Long hours in direct sunlight without protection increase the risk.
- Older adults, especially over the age of 50 – Risk increases with age due to cumulative sun damage over the years.
Skin Cancer Prevention Tips
With good behaviours, skin cancer is mostly avoidable. If you want to avoid getting melanoma or skin cancers other than melanoma, these simple steps can make a big difference.
1. Protect Your Skin from UV Exposure
- Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., stay in the shadow while UV rays are most intense.
- Don UV-blocking sunglasses, wide-brimmed caps, and UPF-rated apparel.
- Apply liberally broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to all exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Never discount sunburns; repeated burns can cause skin cancer later in life.
2. Avoid Tanning Beds
A big factor for avoidable melanoma is tanning beds. They are linked to more than 440 cases of melanoma every year in the UK. If you use sunbeds before age 35, your risk goes up by up to 75%. If necessary, choose safer substitutes including self-tanning lotions.
3. Check Your Skin Often.
Once a month, give your skin self-check. Search for any sore that doesn’t heal, shifting locations, or new moles.
Use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, border, colour, diameter, evolving characteristics.
Especially if your profile is high-risk—fair skin, family history, or multiple moles—schedule an annual skin check with a dermatologist.
4. Know the UV Index.
Check the UV index daily—it shows how strong the sun’s rays are. If the level is 3 or higher, take extra care to protect your skin outdoors.
Keep youngsters safe; sunburns before the age of eighteen can quadruple the melanoma risk later in life.
Plan walks or workouts for early morning or late afternoon to minimise UV exposure at peak.
5. Use SkinVision for Early Detection
Scanning your skin for melanoma, BCC, SCC, and actinic keratosis, the SkinVision app aids in early detection.
Important elements comprise:
- Artificial intelligence-powered 90% accurate skin checks
- Body map to monitor moles across time.
- SkinVision shares UV index data based on your location and offers tailored advice on sun safety and skin care.
- Simple scan sharing with your doctor
How SkinVision Helps You Detect Skin Cancer Early
In a few minutes, the SkinVision app lets you examine your skin for early indicators of diseases including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and actinic keratosis.
The software employs medically certified artificial intelligence to evaluate whether a place is low risk or high danger even if it does not offer a medical diagnosis. Your answer also indicates the next best actions, including tracking the location, getting a professional assessment, or scheduling an urgent appointment.
This short, easily available examination helps you make wise decisions regarding your skin and provides comfort of mind. SkinVision provides 24/7 access to skin health insights—anywhere, anytime—whether you’re uncertain about a mole or just want to be proactive.
Why use SkinVision?
- Get results in 48 hours
- Helps you identify early signs of melanoma, BCC, SCC
- Backed by dermatological science
Conclusion: Stay Ahead of Skin Cancer
What is skin cancer? It’s a serious health condition where abnormal skin cells grow out of control. But the good news is—if caught early, it’s also one of the most treatable types of cancer. Understanding what skin cancer is, along with its causes, signs, and types, can help you stay one step ahead.
Regularly search for skin cancer symptoms, avoid extended sun exposure, and use the SkinVision app to take charge of your skin condition.
It only takes a minute to scan a mole, but it could save your life.
FAQs
Can you survive skin cancer?
Yes. Most skin cancers are treatable, especially if found early.
How does skin cancer affect individuals?
It can cause changes in the skin, pain, stress, and may spread if not treated.
How do they remove skin cancer?
Doctors remove it with surgery, freezing, creams, or laser, depending on the type.
How to detect skin cancer early?
Check your skin often. Look for new spots, changes in moles, or sores that don’t heal. Apps like SkinVision can also help.
