Signs of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a form of cancer that manifests itself in different ways and signs. The most common of skin cancer signs is a change in the skin like growths or sores that don't heal. If you find lumps that are smooth, shiny or waxy looking, or is red or reddish brown in color, it is better to visit the doctor to find out if you are suffering from skin cancer as early as possible.

Red spots that are rough or scaly are other skin cancer signs that should be shown to the doctor when in doubt. As skin cancer can start from or near a mole, make it a point to have your health care provider check all unusual moles that seem to be larger than others, have different colors or have irregular edges. This is because these are all signs for skin cancer.

Skin cancer signs are listed as the "ABCD" warning signs of melanoma where:

A - Asymmetry means that one half of the mole does not match the other half.

B - Border irregularity where the edges of the moles are ragged, blurred and notched.

C - Color where you find irregular pigmentation in the moles of your body. There may be moles in shades of tan, brown or black with a mottled or splotchy appearance.

D - Diameter where you find the width of the moles to be more than 6 millimeters, or the size of a pencil eraser. Abnormal growth in the mole should be reported and investigated.

The other signals for skin cancer are usually mottled, light brown to black and flat blemishes having irregular edges. These moles may turn red, blue or white and may also bleed or crust on its surface. The earliest skin cancer signs for squamous cell carcinoma are skin growths called actinic keratosis.

These are small and scaly spots that develop on the parts of the body that are exposed to the sun. They usually start as small, red and flat spots that grow large, scaly and thick like a wart and usually form on the face or back of hands.

The other signs you should keep an eye out for are:

* Changes in color or shape in existing moles, or moles that start to bleed or ooze.

* Moles that grow into unusually large size.

* Sores on the mole that heal very slowly.

* Blood blisters which you find under toenails, which develop on its own, and not because of a blow.

* New moles that develop after the age of 30. People usually get moles within the age of 30s; new moles that start after it have to be studied and investigated.

These skin cancer signs can be identified and declared skin cancer only by your doctor. So if you find any of these skin cancer signs, make sure that you consult your doctor to find out the next step to be taken.

Discover many insider tips and tricks to keep your face looking young and vivacious with a FREE Facial Skin Care Special Report from cosmetics-center.com, or make sure to check out the articles at Skin Cancer Guide

Copyright 2008 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact and the links live.

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Dont over-expose yourself

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. The number of new cases of skin cancer appears to be rising each year.

Skin cancer affects people of all skin tones, including those with darker complexions. Skin cancer can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most common in skin that has been exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, hands, and arms.

In the ancient history, sun worship was considered one of the most sacred acts. But, scientist has now come up with a different version and cautions people from having a long exposure to the sun. A series of research studies and analysis have revealed that any form of extensive exposure to the direct sunlight can cause you severe damage, ranging from sunburns and tanning to skin cancer. The harmful UV rays can penetrate the delicate skin layers and cause irreversible damage.

When you are out in the sun, make sure that you protect yourself properly. The most important is to wear a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. Wear protective clothing, besides wearing good quality sunglasses. Small measures taken today can go a long way in preventing long term illnesses as the damage causes by the sun can take quite a long time to actually start showing.

Although skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in this country, it accounts for much less than 1 percent of all cancer deaths.

What most people don't realize is that it is also the most preventable type of cancer. It does not have to be inevitable or unstoppable despite prior cell damage.

Linda A works on a Skin Care site at http://skin-care-on-line.com

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Self Examination

Skin cancer is a common form of cancer which can usually be successfully treated if caught in an early stage of development. It's important to detect skin cancer early, because even melanoma, the most difficult form of skin cancer to treat, has a high recovery rate if treated before metastasis. What does skin cancer look like? Only a doctor can tell you if you have skin cancer, but there are some warning signs you can look for to let you know when you need to ask for a doctor's opinion.

The first symptom of skin cancer is a tumor on the skin. Since these tumors appear on the skin, they are easily detected at an early stage, making rapid treatment a possibility. While it is less known than a breast exam, people can do their part to detect skin cancer early by doing a skin self-examination. Instructions are available on how to do a thorough examination, but the basic idea is that you check your entire skin area for anything unusual. This includes your scalp, between your toes, and every part of your skin.

It is important to be familiar with your body so that you notice any differences. Nevi or moles are extremely common, and the average person has 10 to 40 of them. Even having some dysplastic nevi, irregularly-shaped moles, is common. These are benign growths and they are nothing to worry about. However, you should be familiar with your moles and their appearance. New moles and changes in the appearance, texture, or color of old moles could be a sign of a cancerous tumor developing, and you should consult your doctor if something like this occurs.

Basal cell and squamous skin cancer can appear as a new, strange-looking mole, or as an area resembling a rash or a sore which does not heal normally. The key to detecting these cancers early is to do skin self-examinations, and consult a doctor if there are any such irregularities.

Melanoma has an appearance which may be more striking and obvious. This is a deadlier form of skin cancer, affecting the melanocytes which lay beneath the epidermis. These cells give pigment to your skin, and these are the types of cells which form nevi. If you discover a new dysplastic nevus that was not previously on your body, you should see a doctor. Early detection and early treatment are necessary to prevent the cancer from spreading. A discolored mole, a mole which has increased in size or is surrounded by discolored or broken skin, or an asymmetrical mole may be a cancerous tumor and should be examined by a doctor.

Regular skin self-examinations can help you detect irregularities which should be evaluated by a medical professional. What does skin cancer look like? Looks can be deceiving, and only your doctor can tell you for sure, but there are some warning signs which can help you detect and eliminate skin cancer in its early stages.

To learn much more about the different types skin cancer, visit http://www.SkinCancer-101.com where you'll find this and much more, including skin cancer signs.

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