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Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Overview of Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, arising when basal cells in the lower layer of the epidermis begin to grow abnormally.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second-most common form of skin cancer, developing when the squamous cells in the upper layers of the skin grow abnormally and unchecked.

At Vanguard Skin Specialists, our dermatology providers, Mohs surgeons, plastic surgeons, and in-house dermatopathologists work together to diagnose and treat BCCs and SCCs with precision. We combine advanced surgical and non-surgical options and emphasize early detection. This is important in high-UV-exposure regions like Southern Colorado.

Close-up of a person's skin near the eye, showing a small, raised, round, pink bump that resembles a mole or skin tag—features sometimes seen in basal cell carcinoma—surrounded by facial hair and visible pores.

Appearance of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma can present itself in a variety of forms, so recognizing suspicious changes is key. Common warning signs of BCCs include:

  • A pearly or translucent bump, often with tiny visible blood vessels (telangiectasias) and a shiny surface.
  • A flat, scaly patch or pink-ish spot that may resemble eczema but doesn’t heal.
  • A lesion with a rolled border or central depression, sometimes ulcerated (often called a “rodent ulcer”).
  • Most commonly found on sun-exposed areas: face, ears, neck, scalp, and shoulders.

Appearance of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma can also present itself in several ways. Some of the common warning signs of SCCs include:

  • A firm, red nodule or elevated growth on sun-exposed skin (face, ears, scalp, hands, arms) that may feel tender.
  • A flat, scaly patch that may crust over, bleed, or fail to heal.
  • A new growth, ulcer, or non-healing sore on an existing scar, wound, or area of chronic inflammation (so-called “Marjolin’s ulcer”).
  • Any lesion that changes in size, shape, or color, or that appears in a high-risk location (e.g., lips, ears, nose, and eyes) warrants evaluation.

If you notice any spot that hurts, bleeds, doesn’t heal, or grows quickly, scheduling a dermatologic skin exam is strongly advised.

Close-up of human skin showing a red, inflamed patch with dry, scaly, and flaky texture, which may be mistaken for conditions like eczema but could also indicate skin cancer such as basal cell carcinoma.

Treatment Options

At Vanguard Skin Specialists, we tailor treatment plans based on the skin cancer type, size, location, and patient health status. Options include:

  • Excisional surgery or Mohs micrographic surgery: Many BCCs and SCCs are treated via excisional surgery or the gold-standard Mohs micrographic surgery, which offers precise margin control and high cure rates. Mohs is indicated for high-risk locations (face, ears) and recurrent skin cancers.
  • Topical therapies or non-surgical approaches: In select cases of superficial cancers, topical medications or photodynamic therapy may be options.
  • Radiation therapy or systemic treatments: Reserved for cases where surgery is not feasible.

Preventing Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Simple line drawing of a person’s face with closed eyes, partially covered by a shield symbol featuring a sunburst, representing protection or immunity while highlighting natural skin texture.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun Every Day

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher—even on cloudy days—and reapply every two hours when outdoors.

A simple, dark blue outline drawing of an open umbrella with a curved handle, shown on a light background—perfect for accenting designs that highlight skin tone or skin texture.

Seek Shade and Avoid Peak Sun Hours

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, especially at Colorado’s higher elevations, where UV intensity is greater.

A simple blue outline of a shield with a T-shirt inside, accompanied by a checkmark in a blue circle on the bottom right, symbolizing clothing protection or approval while considering skin tone and skin texture.

Wear Protective Clothing

Wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, UV-blocking sunglasses, and fabrics with a high UPF rating provide additional defense.

Line drawing of a person lying inside a tanning bed, with a sun symbol above and wavy lines representing heat or UV light—highlighting the risk of skin cancer such as basal cell carcinoma from UV exposure.

Avoid Tanning Beds

Artificial UV exposure carries the same risks as natural sunlight and significantly increases the chance of developing skin cancer.

Simple outline of a human head with a magnifying glass positioned over the right cheek, suggesting close examination or face analysis focused on skin tone or skin texture.

Perform Regular Skin Self-Exams

Check your skin once a month for new or changing spots, bumps, or sores that do not heal.

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Schedule Annual Total Body Skin Exams (TBSEs)

Early detection saves tissue and reduces the need for more extensive procedures. Vanguard’s dermatology providers specialize in identifying subtle or early signs of skin cancer.

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The WOW Promise—Within One Week

When it comes to skin cancer, time matters. At Vanguard Skin Specialists, we believe no patient with a potentially concerning spot should wait weeks for answers. That’s why we created the WOW Promise—Within One Week.

If you have a mole, lesion, or spot that looks suspicious or is causing concern, our team will ensure you are seen by one of our dermatology providers within one week of contacting us. This commitment reflects our mission to provide exceptional, compassionate care when you need it most.

FAQs About Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma