How to check your skin for signs of cancer

Around 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime.²

Although there's a high survival rate when caught early, skin cancer can be deadly.³ You can lower your risk of getting skin cancer by using sun cream, avoiding exposure to the sun during the hottest parts of the day and keeping skin covered when outside.⁴ However, if you do get skin cancer, early detection and treatment are essential.

One of the best ways to keep your skin safe is to have regular skin checks with a health professional, but you can also do your own self-skin checks.

When a health professional performs a skin check, they use a magnifying tool called a dermatoscope, which allows them to see the skin and its top layers more clearly.

While it’s important to get skin checks with a professional at least once a year, you don’t have to wait that long to take care of your skin. A self-skin check is simply looking at your skin to see if there have been any changes to its appearance, especially areas that have moles, pigmentation or beauty marks.

Cancer Council NSW states that most melanomas, the deadliest form of skin cancer, are found by the person with the cancer or their partner. Around 95 per cent of skin cancers are treatable when found early.⁵

Skin cancers don’t always look the same, so it’s important to note anything that looks or feels new or different from what’s usual for you.

Use the ABCDEs of melanoma to check your skin.⁶ Look for spots with the following:

Asymmetrical

Borders that are irregular

Colours that are uneven

Diameter that’s larger than 6mm

Evolving (Changes in size, shape or colour, or start to itch or bleed).

Other signs to be aware of are new moles or the surface of a mole becoming rough or scaly. If you have any concerns, see your GP immediately.

1. Schedule it

Put a monthly reminder in your calendar to do a self-skin check. Regular checks mean you will notice any changes quickly, which can lead to faster treatment and better outcomes. Doing regular checks also means you get to know your skin better, making any changes easier to spot.

2. Buddy up

Get your partner or bestie to do a skin check with you. That way that can check hard to see places such as your back, neck and back of the legs. And you can then return the favour!

3. Take pictures

If you have any prominent moles that a healthcare professional has said it would be good to keep an eye on, take regular photos and save them in a folder on your phone or computer. That way, if changes do occur you can tell your doctor the approximate timing, making the issue easier to track and treat.

4. Go top to toe

Start with your head and scalp. Use a comb or hairdryer to part your hair in different ways and ask your buddy to check behind your ears. Don’t forget to check the soles of your feet, armpits, between your toes and your palms. Check under your toe and fingernails as well.

5. Use mirrors

Full length and smaller handheld mirrors can help, especially if your buddy isn’t around. Make sure the room is well lit and take your time. It’s worth the investment. See your doctor straight away if you have any concerns.