Tips To Prevent Skin Cancer And What To Look For

Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer, and it can potentially lead to death. Fortunately, skin cancer can still be reversed if spotted and treated as early on as possible. This means that it’s imperative to know how to spot early warning signs of skin cancer and how to prevent it.

With this in mind, if you suspect that you have some form of skin cancer, you can consult with Dr. Richard Cirelli of SunWest Dermatology & Skin Cancer Treatment Center in our Prescott, AZ, or Prescott Valley, AZ, office for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

An Overview of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. The most prevalent types of skin cancer seen in Prescott are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal and squamous cell carcinoma develops on the epidermis or areas in your body that are frequently exposed to the sun. In contrast, melanoma can develop in areas in the body that haven’t been exposed to the sun. It is also the most serious type.

Spotting Skin Cancer

Skin cancer could appear in various shapes or sizes. So it’s vital to know what signs you should look out for.

Melanoma and The “ABCDE” Rule

  • Two halves of a mole or birthmark don’t correspond evenly.
  • The sides of a birthmark or mole appear irregular or blurred.
  • The color of a mole is inconsistent and differs. It may have varying shades of brown and black. Other areas may have shades of red, white, pink, or blue.
  • The size of the spot is bigger than six millimeters.
  • The skin lesion or mole constantly changes in shape, size, or color and appears different from the rest.

Basal Cell Carcinomas

  • Level, pale, or yellowish areas
  • Itchy red patches
  • Small semitransparent bumps that are pearly, red, or pink with black or brown areas
  • Pink lumps with raised borders and a sunken area in the middle, that may have unusual blood vessels scattered out
  • Persistent open sores that don’t seem to heal

Squamous Cell Carcinomas

  • Scaly reddish patches that bleed or crust
  • Persistent open sores that don’t seem to get better
  • Wart-like spots or lumps
  • Raised lumps with a sunken area in the middle

Prevention Tips

As mentioned earlier, most skin cancers can be easily prevented. To ultimately decrease your risk of developing skin cancer, you can follow these simple prevention tips:

  • Visit your dermatologist in our Prescott, AZ, or Prescott Valley, AZ, office at least once annually for skin cancer screening exams.
  • Stay in the shade when the sun’s rays are at their strongest, which is typically between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM.
  • Avoid tanning and using tanning beds.
  • Wear attire that can cover your arms and legs.
  • Wear a hat that can shield your face, ears, head, and neck.
  • Apply a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or more.
  • Put an ounce of sunscreen on your body 30 minutes before participating in outdoor activities.
  • Perform a skin self-exam once monthly.


For Any Questions, Concerns, or More Details on Skin Cancer, Speak to Us

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Richard Cirelli in our Prescott, AZ, or Prescott Valley, AZ, office. Call SunWest Dermatology & Skin Cancer Treatment Center at (928) 445-7546 to learn more.

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