Skin cancer is a type of cancer that develops from the skin cells. It is the most common form of cancer, and it is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.

Skin cancer can be caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, tanning beds, or other sources. However, most skin cancers are preventable and can be treated if detected early.

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and usually appears as a small, translucent or pearly bump on the skin.

Squamous cell carcinoma typically appears as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly or crusty surface. Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and can develop from existing moles or appear as a new dark spot on the skin.

Visual Signs of Skin Cancer

The best way to spot skin cancer is to regularly examine your skin and look for any changes in the appearance of moles, freckles, or other pigmented areas.

Dermatologists recommend performing a self-check at least once a month and getting a professional skin exam once a year.

Here are some visual signs of skin cancer to look for:.

Asymmetry

If one half of a mole or spot is different from the other half, it may be a sign of skin cancer. Normal moles are usually symmetrical.

Border

If the edges of a mole or spot are irregular, jagged, or blurred, it may be a sign of skin cancer. Normal moles have smooth, even borders.

Color

If a mole or spot has multiple colors, such as black, brown, tan, white, or red, it may be a sign of skin cancer. Normal moles are usually one color.

Diameter

If a mole or spot is larger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm in diameter), it may be a sign of skin cancer. However, melanomas can be smaller than this size, so it is important to check any unusual marks on the skin.

Evolving

If a mole or spot changes in size, shape, color, or texture, it may be a sign of skin cancer. Normal moles usually remain stable over time.

Photographs of Skin Cancer

While the visual signs of skin cancer are helpful to know, it can be difficult to visualize what they look like in real life. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of photographs of skin cancer to help you better understand what to look for.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Here are some examples of basal cell carcinoma:.

This is an example of basal cell carcinoma on the face. It appears as a pink, pearly bump with visible blood vessels.

This is an example of basal cell carcinoma on the chest. It appears as a slightly raised, translucent patch with a rolled edge.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Here are some examples of squamous cell carcinoma:.

This is an example of squamous cell carcinoma on the ear. It appears as a red, scaly patch with irregular borders.

This is an example of squamous cell carcinoma on the hand. It appears as a raised, thickened, and scaly area.

Melanoma

Here are some examples of melanoma:.

This is an example of melanoma on the leg. It appears as a dark, irregularly shaped mole with uneven borders and multiple colors.

This is an example of melanoma on the arm. It appears as a raised, dark, asymmetrical mole with irregular borders and varying shades of brown, black, and tan.

Conclusion

Understanding skin cancer through photographs can help you identify potential warning signs and seek medical attention if necessary.

Remember to regularly examine your skin and protect it from UV radiation by wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen. If you notice any changes in your skin, consult a dermatologist as soon as possible to rule out skin cancer.