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Total Body Skin Exam

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.

Early detection leads to early cure and better outcomes for our patients. That is why we are passionate about annual TBSEs for every patient.

What to Expect During a TBSE

A person with multiple moles and spots on their back being examined by someone wearing white medical gloves, focusing on skin health or a dermatology check-up.

What the Exam Involves

Total body skin exams are quick and comfortable. Here’s what you can expect:

  • We start with your medical and skin history, including sun exposure, mole changes, and family/personal skin cancer risk.
  • For the exam, you’ll undress down to your underwear and wear a medical gown. You’re always in control of the exam, and your provider will make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.
  • The provider systematically examines your skin from head to toe—including scalp, face, ears, neck, chest, abdomen, back, arms, legs, hands, feet, nails, and skin folds. If there are areas you want us to skip, the provider will examine them to your comfort level.
  • If any spot is concerning, the provider may document it (photo or dermatoscope), explain what it could be, and propose next steps (monitoring, biopsy, treatment).
A healthcare professional in a white coat performs a Total Body Skin Exam, checking a woman's arm with a small medical device while she sits and looks down at her arm in a clinical setting.

The Importance of Annual TBSEs

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. During a professional exam, your dermatology provider can identify subtle or hidden lesions that may otherwise go unnoticed. This is especially important in Colorado, where our higher elevation and thinner atmosphere result in significantly increased UV exposure year-round. By making full-body skin exams part of your annual health routine, you can catch potential problems early, reduce your risk of advanced skin cancer, and protect your skin’s long-term health.

Frequently Asked Questions