Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. Fortunately, most skin cancers are highly treatable when found early. And the best news is that you can take steps to prevent them.

That involves protecting your skin and being on the lookout for skin changes.

Look for Changes

The Skin Cancer Foundation says self-exams are a key to early detection. What you’re looking for are changes on your skin.

• Look for any new moles or growths.
• Look for any older ones that have started to grow or change.
• Look for a lesion that itches, bleeds or doesn’t heal.

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Doctors suggest two special strategies to help you keep an eye out for it: the ABCDEs  and the Ugly Duckling sign.

Learn you ABCDEs: Possible signs that a mole could be melanoma include:

• A and B: Look for Asymmetry and irregular Borders. Look for any mole that has changed to an irregular, non-circular shape or has a less distinct edge between the mole and the rest of your skin.
• C: Any change in Color is also important. Many melanomas are black or brown, but they can also be skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white. The thing to watch for is a change from one color to another.
• D: The size of a mole, or Diameter, is also key. Any mole larger than a pencil eraser may need to be looked at.
• E: Everyone’s skin changes, or Evolves, over time. But see your doctor if you notice a new mole with these traits or changes in an existing one.

The Ugly Duckling sign: Be on the lookout for something that is different. It might be one mole that is different than those around it. It might be larger or darker. Those differences are a sign to bring it to your doctor’s attention.

Protect Your Skin from UV Exposure

Melanoma is caused mainly by intense, occasional UV exposure (often leading to sunburn). Some people, like those with lighter skin, may be more likely to get it. But everyone is at risk. So it’s important for everyone to protect their skin when in the sun. And skip tanning beds.

Just one blistering sunburn as a child or teen more than doubles your risk for melanoma. Everyone over 6 months old should follow these guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology: 

• Choose sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30 or higher, is water resistant, and provides broad-spectrum protection.
• Apply sunscreen generously before going outdoors. It takes about 15 minutes for your skin to soak up the sunscreen and protect you.
• Apply sunscreen to all bare skin. Remember your neck, face, ears, legs and the tops of your feet. For hard-to-reach areas like your back, ask someone to help or use a spray sunscreen. If you have thinning hair, either apply sunscreen to your scalp or wear a wide-brimmed hat. To protect your lips, apply a lip balm with a SPF of at least 15.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. And reapply right away after swimming or heavy sweating.

Sources: Skin Cancer Basics,  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Melanoma Warning Signs,  Skin Cancer Foundation, 2021; Prevent Skin Cancer,  American Academy of Dermatology Association

Originally published 7/8/2015; Revised 2019, 2022, 2024