Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It usually appears on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, and neck.

BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can cause disfigurement and be difficult to treat if not detected early. Here are five warning signs of BCC that you should not ignore:.

1. A Pearly or Waxy Bump

A pearly or waxy bump that may bleed or develop a crust is the most common sign of BCC. It may look like a molluscum contagiosum or a pimple, but it won’t go away and may slowly grow bigger.

The bump may have tiny blood vessels on its surface and may be surrounded by a depressed area of skin.

2. A Scar-Like Area

Some basal cell carcinomas may appear as a firm, flat, pale or yellow area similar to a scar. This type of BCC may not be raised at all but have a slightly indented appearance.

It may be mistaken for a scar, a benign lesion or a rash that won’t go away.

3. A Pink Growth

Basal cell carcinomas can also look like a pink, slightly elevated patch of skin similar to eczema or psoriasis. This type of BCC may be itchy, tender, or scaly and may have small indentations.

It may be mistaken for a dry patch, a patch of skin with an allergic reaction or a fungal infection.

4. A Raised, Red Patch

A reddish, raised patch of skin that may have a scaly or crusted surface is another warning sign of BCC. This type of basal cell carcinoma may be tender or itchy and bleed easily when scraped or bumped.

It may be mistaken for a patch of eczema, a patch of psoriasis, or a sunburn.

5. A White Pimple-Like Bump

Basal cell carcinomas can also appear as a flesh-colored or white pimple-like bump that may bleed and form a scab. This type of BCC can be easily mistaken for a zit, an ingrown hair, or a pimple that won’t heal.

However, the bump won’t go away and may slowly grow bigger.

If you notice any of these warning signs on your skin, you should see a dermatologist as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment. Early detection and treatment of basal cell carcinoma can help prevent disfigurement and complications.

Your dermatologist may perform a biopsy of the affected area to determine if it is cancerous and may recommend surgical, topical or radiation therapy depending on the size, location and type of BCC.