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Skin Cancer

Understanding Skin Cancer

Skin cancer develops when skin cells begin to grow out of control, forming abnormal growths or tumors. These changes typically start in the epidermis—the outermost layer of skin—and can become malignant if not detected early. It’s the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, with millions of new cases identified each year.

There are several types of skin cancer:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma: The most common form, occurring in cells that produce new skin.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Arises from squamous cells and can be more aggressive.
  • Melanoma: Less common but more likely to spread and can be life-threatening if not detected early.
A healthcare professional wearing gloves examines a person's forearm with a dermatoscope. The person being examined is wearing a white tank top and jeans. The setting appears to be a medical clinic.

What Is a Total Body Skin Exam?

At Vanguard Skin Specialists, our standard of care is total body skin exams (TBSEs). That means at your dermatology visit, we will ask you, “Would you like a total body skin exam?”

Why? Because…

  • Skin cancer affects 1 in 5 Americans.
  • Skin cancer can appear anywhere there is skin, from head to toe.
  • Skin cancer is treatable if detected early.

Regular total body skin exams are one of the most effective ways to detect skin cancer early—when it’s most treatable. Many skin cancers develop in areas you might not easily see, such as the scalp, back, or between the toes, and they often cause no pain or symptoms until they become advanced.

Schedule Your Skin Exam Today

Who Is at Risk for Skin Cancer?  

Skin cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors can significantly increase your risk. Understanding these risks is an important step in prevention and early detection.

How to Prevent Skin Cancer

While not all skin cancers can be prevented, you can greatly reduce your risk through protective habits:

UV Protection

  • Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ every day, even on cloudy days. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours!
  • Seek shade and avoid peak UV hours (about 10 AM – 3 PM).
  • Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, clothing with a high UPF rating, and UV-blocking sunglasses.

Avoid Tanning Beds

Artificial UV radiation increases cancer risk significantly.

Regular Skin Monitoring

Check your skin monthly for new or changing spots, moles, or lesions, and seek professional evaluation for anything concerning.

Annual TBSEs

Annual total body skin exams by a dermatologist help catch skin cancer early when it’s most treatable.