Fall is officially here and now that the cooler weather has begun, it’s time to assess the damage, if any, that the summer sun may have done. Now is the perfect time for a post-summer skin check for mole abnormalities or any new discolorations you have developed during the prime sun season. Sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer. Checking your body for any changes can significantly reduce advanced stages of skin cancer.
What to check for
When doing a skin check, first look for any new moles or growths. If you do skin checks with regularity, you will come to recognize anything that wasn’t there before. You may also want to start diagramming your body in order to take note of changes month-to-month or year-to-year.
In addition to any new appearances, check moles that may have changed in size or color. A mole may change color to either a darker or lighter shade, or appear pearly or multi-colored. Look for increases in size and changes of shape. Changes in thickness or texture is also important to note.
If you have a spot on your skin that feels inflamed, consistently sore or appears to crust or scab over should have it checked out by a doctor.
Where to check
Begin by checking your face and scalp. Pay close attention to your nose, lips and ears. If you have existing moles or beauty marks, inspect the areas around them for any changes in color or size. Also examine your scalp, moving aside your hair section by section.
When checking over your hands and arms, don’t forget to check under your fingernails and between your fingers. Look at the palm as well as the back of your hand. Use a mirror to check the back of your arms and the underarm area. From here, review your neck and chest. Women should also check underneath their breasts.
Use a full length mirror to study your back, buttocks and the backs of your legs. You may want to ask your partner to assist you if you have trouble diagramming these areas. Do the same for your feet as you do for your hands, looking under toenails and in between toes.
It may be helpful to have a doctor do your first head to toe exam. He or she can examine any existing spots, freckles and moles and tell you whether any of these look suspicious and require treatment. A monthly exam at home is then enough to spot any changes. Early detection of any changes helps prevent or reduce the chance of skin cancer.
Should you note any changes or problem areas, be sure to get an exam by your doctor to determine if there is cause for concern.
