By PAGE Editor

Hey friends. Keeping an eye on your skin and moles is so important for catching any potential issues early. While seeing a dermatologist like Sundoctors yearly is ideal, you can also do thorough skin checks yourself at home between appointments. When done regularly, self-skin exams allow you to monitor any changes in spots, growths, and marks on your skin. Early detection gives you the best odds for treating skin cancers successfully. Read on for steps to do full-body skin check practices at home.

Why Bother with Self Skin Exams?

You may be wondering, if I already see a dermatologist, why bother checking my own skin? It's a fair question. Here are the top reasons to incorporate DIY skin checks into your health routine:

• Spot changes from one check to the next. You'll notice if a mole has grown or darkened, which is key.

• Don't have to wait a year for skin feedback. Get info on your skin health as often as you want.

• Guides you on what to point out at yearly derm visits. You'll know what's new or concerning.

• Catches things between visits. Some doctors only want to know about brand new growths.

• Creates peace of mind. Getting familiar with your skin landscape is empowering.

• Saves money. DIY checks mean fewer in-office appointments to pay for.

So in summary, self skin checks provide more regular monitoring between doctor visits at no cost. Think of it as being proactive about your skin health.

Tips for Your at Home Skin Cancer Screening

Ready to perform your own skin check? Here are some tips for making the most of it:

Examine Your Whole Body

Many people just glance quickly in the mirror at face and arm moles. But a thorough scan needs to cover all areas head to toe, including your back, scalp, between fingers, bottoms of feet, etc. Use a handheld mirror or have a partner help check hard-to-see spots.

Check All Sides of Your Body

Carefully inspect the front AND back of your body. Also check the left and right sides. Skin cancers can pop up anywhere, so scan every angle.

Use Proper Lighting

Grab a flashlight, stand by a sunny window, or turn on bright overhead lights. No shadows or dim lighting. You need optimal visibility.

Use a Photo Archive

Take close-up photos of moles and spots at each check to monitor changes over time. Comparing pics makes differences obvious.

DIY Skin Cancer Apps

Use smartphone apps designed for skin self-exams. Many map moles with automatic alerts about changes. Very handy.

Repeat Monthly

Don't just do occasional checks now and then. Monthly self exams let you stay really on top of what's happening with your skin.

What to Look for During Skin Checks?

When examining your skin, keep an eye out for:

• New growths or spots

• Existing moles or marks that are changing - growing, bleeding, itchy, etc.

• Dark or multicolored lesions with irregular borders

• Spots with multiple colors like black, brown, tan, red, white, or blue

• Raised moles that are dome-shaped

• Spots that look scaly, ooze fluid, or crust over

Basically, be on the lookout for any skin changes as well as marks that just look unusual or concerning. Document anything questionable to show your dermatologist.

When to Visit Your Dermatologist

Make an appointment with your dermatologist promptly if you notice any of the following during a self skin check:

• A new mole or mark

• An existing mole that is rapidly changing shape, size, or color

• A spot that looks significantly different from others

• A lesion that won't heal after a month

• A mole that is painful, itchy, scaly, bleeding, or oozing

• Numerous moles clustered together on a patch of skin

Conclusion 

You know your skin better than anyone. If a mark concerns you, get it evaluated ASAP. Early detection makes a big difference for skin cancer treatment. Be your own health advocate with regular DIY skin checks. Let me know if you have any other questions on safeguarding your skin health.

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