Visit a Skin Center if You Notice Changes in the Skin
Any abnormal growth of skin cells could suggest skin cancer. While this type of cancer appears most often on those areas of the skin that receive regular exposure to the sun, it may occur anywhere on the body. Skin cancer comes in three main types, and a person can reduce their risk of developing it by limiting or avoiding their UV ray’s exposure. Monitor the skin and visit a skin center if any changes are seen on the body.
Where is Skin Cancer Commonly Seen?
Skin cancer often appears on the face, lips, arms, and hands. However, a person might find skin cancer on the scalp, chest, neck, and legs. Nevertheless, some people find they have cancer on their palms, under their nails, or on their genitals. A person can develop skin cancer regardless of skin tone. However, those with dark complexions are more likely to develop it in areas that don’t receive sun exposure.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma typically affects the face, neck, and other areas of the body that regularly see the sun. It appears as a sore that bleeds or scabs, heals, and comes back. Flat lesions that resemble scars may also be basal cell carcinoma, or the cancer may show up as a bump with a pearly or waxy appearance.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma develops as a firm red bump or a flat lesion that has a scaly and crusty surface. This type of cancer develops on areas of the skin exposed to the sun. However, individuals with dark skin tones often find they have this type of cancer in areas of the body the sun doesn’t reach.
Melanoma
Melanoma may appear on any part of the body. However, it often shows up on the person’s face or the trunks of men. Women tend to get it on their lower legs. People of every skin tone are susceptible to melanoma, although those with dark skin tones often find it on the palms of their hands, the soles of their feet, or underneath the nails.
In addition, melanoma has been found to develop in the mouth, digestive or urinary tract, or vagina. It does so in the mucous membranes found in these parts of the body. Melanoma in the eye is another condition people must be aware of.
These serve as the three main types of skin cancer. There are other types. If you notice any changes on the skin, make an appointment with a dermatology center. It might be nothing, but it’s better to know what you are dealing with.