Skin Cancer: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the world, but the good news is that most cases can be prevented and successfully treated if detected early. In this guide, we’ll cover the types of skin cancer, the most important symptoms to look out for, and tips on prevention to help you protect your skin.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer develops when skin cells grow in an abnormal and uncontrolled way. This usually happens because of damage to the DNA of skin cells. The most common cause of this damage is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. In some cases, genetics or other environmental factors can also play a role.
There are three main types of skin cancer:
(1) Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
The most common skin cancer.
Usually appears as a shiny bump, a sore that won’t heal, or a patch of red, scaly skin.
Rarely spreads but can cause damage if left untreated.
(2) Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Often appears as a firm red nodule, scaly patch, or sore that crusts or bleeds.
Can spread if not treated.
(3) Melanoma
The most serious type of skin cancer of the three listed here.
Can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot.
Spreads quickly if not detected early.
Skin Cancer Symptoms: How to Spot the Signs
The ABCDE rule is a simple way to check your skin for early signs of melanoma and other skin cancers:
A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
B – Border: Uneven, blurred, or jagged edges.
C – Colour: Multiple colours (brown, black, red, white, or blue).
D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about a pencil eraser).
E – Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or colour.
Other symptoms include sores that don’t heal, raised growths, or new patches of scaly skin. If you notice anything unusual, book a skin check with your GP, dermatologist, or plastic surgeon.
Who is at risk of skin cancer?
While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors increase the risk:
Excessive sun exposure or tanning bed use.
Fair skin, light-coloured eyes, or blonde/red hair.
History of severe sunburns, especially in childhood.
Family or personal history of skin cancer.
Weakened immune system due to medical conditions or medications.
Certain genetic conditions.
Skin cancer prevention tips
The best treatment for skin cancer is prevention. Here’s how you can lower your risk:
Use sunscreen daily – Choose SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours.
Wear protective clothing – Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Stay in the shade – Especially between 10am and 4pm when the sun is strongest.
Avoid tanning beds – Artificial UV rays are just as harmful as the sun.
Check your skin regularly – Perform self-exams and schedule annual professional skin checks.
Skin cancer treatment options
If diagnosed early, most skin cancers can be treated effectively. Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer but may include:
Surgical removal of the cancerous cells. The procedure involves cutting out the cancer along with a small margin of healthy-looking skin around it. This “safety margin” helps ensure that all cancer cells are removed. The removed tissue (specimen) is then sent to a laboratory. Pathologists examine it under a microscope to confirm the type of skin cancer, check its features, and make sure the cancer has been fully excised. Depending on the size and location of the skin cancer, the wound may be closed with stitches, or it may need reconstruction using a skin graft (taking skin from another part of the body) or a local flap (rearranging nearby skin).
Topical medications for superficial cancers.
Radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes, which is why skin checks are so important.
Final Thoughts on Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is common especially in Australia, but largely preventable. By protecting your skin from UV damage, performing regular self-checks, and seeking medical advice when you notice changes, you can significantly reduce your risk.
Dr. Jenaleen Law
Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
MED0001775113
