Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. and affects more than 2 million people annually. Every year, new skin cancer cases outpace the number of new breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer diagnoses. Many people take the time to wash and moisturize their skin, but not nearly as many people monitor their skin for early signs of skin cancer.

Monthly skin checks may help save your life. Taking time out of your day once a month to examine your skin for early signs of skin cancer is critical to protecting the long-term health of your skin. Early detection can provide you with more treatment options and a greater chance at full recovery. When you are examining your skin, look from head to toe, between fingers and toes and in hard-to-reach areas. Use a hand mirror to examine your back, or ask a friend or partner to check for you.

Early signs of skin cancer can include a waxy-looking bump, hard bumps, scaly patches that are not alleviated by lotion, an irregular mole, a sore that does not heal or a mole that bleeds or changes in size or color. These abnormalities can develop anywhere on your body, including on your eyelids, in your mouth and beneath your fingernails. They can affect people with fair skin tones or darker skin tones, people from any ethnic backgrounds, children and adults and both men and women.

Any spots that look suspicious or that concern you should be evaluated further by Dr. Ghasri. Many spots are benign but should still be monitored. A biopsy may be needed to distinguish between benign growths and malignant growths. Dr. Ghasri can examine your skin and make specific recommendations to improve your skin health. Treatment options for skin cancer are extensive, and we will work with you to identify the most appropriate treatment for your needs.

Finding an abnormality on your skin can be a frightening experience, but we can help. If you find any early signs of skin cancer, give us a call and schedule your appointment with Dr. Ghasri, our Los Angeles dermatologist.