Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world. According to the American Cancer Society, there are more cases of skin cancer each year than all other types of cancer combined.

This is largely due to the fact that skin cancer is very often preventable and, when caught early, treatable. That’s why it’s important to know the early warning signs of skin cancer so that you can take action as quickly as possible.

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each type of skin cancer has its own warning signs and symptoms.

Understanding the differences between them can help you identify potential skin cancer early on.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It usually shows up on areas of skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and arms. Some of the warning signs of basal cell carcinoma include:.

A pearly or waxy bump on the skin
A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
A reddish or irritated area on the skin
A cluster of small, shiny, pink or red raised spots on the skin

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to see a dermatologist as soon as possible. Basal cell carcinoma can usually be treated with simple surgery or other procedures if caught early.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It also usually shows up on areas of skin that have been exposed to the sun. Some of the warning signs of squamous cell carcinoma include:.

A firm, red nodule on the skin
A flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface
A new sore or raised area on an old scar or ulcer
A rough, scaly patch on the lip that may look like a wart

Like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma can often be treated with surgery or other procedures if caught early. However, if left untreated for too long, it can spread to other parts of the body.

Melanoma

While less common than basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It usually shows up as a new spot on the skin or a change in an existing mole. Some of the warning signs of melanoma include:.

A mole or spot that is asymmetrical
A mole or spot that has an irregular border
A mole or spot that is more than one color
A mole or spot that is larger than a pencil eraser

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to see a dermatologist as soon as possible. If caught early, melanoma can often be successfully treated. However, if it spreads to other parts of the body, it can be very difficult to treat.

Other Warning Signs

While the warning signs listed above are the most common signs of skin cancer, there are other potential warning signs as well. Some of these include:.

A sore that doesn’t heal within three weeks
A spot or sore that itches, hurts, or bleeds
An area on the skin that becomes thick, red, or scaly
A mole or spot that starts to feel tender or painful

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to see a dermatologist as soon as possible. While they may not necessarily indicate skin cancer, they could be a sign of other skin conditions or infections that need to be treated.

Prevention Tips

The best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect your skin from the sun. This includes:.

Wearing protective clothing, such as hats and long-sleeved shirts
Using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30
Avoiding the sun during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Seeking shade when outdoors

It’s also important to perform regular self-examinations of your skin so that you can quickly identify any potential warning signs and take action as soon as possible.