Every disease becomes worse if ignored for a long time. The same goes for skin cancer because it is the most common cancer and is treatable, but if you ignore the signs and symptoms, it becomes worse. For this, visiting your dermatologist like skinchx.com.au is highly recommended. You can also perform DIY skin checks to examine your entire body for possible signs. If you have never done it before, spend a few minutes and learn a few steps and tips on how to do it and what to look for.
Why Are DIY Skin Checks Important?
Skin cancer begins with a few minor changes in your skin that you often ignore. It is better to detect those minor changes to ensure successful and timely treatment. There are many cases of Melanoma in which patients find themselves during self-examination.
A DIY skin check helps you:
- Identify new moles or growths.
- Monitor changes in existing moles or lesions.
- Detect the areas of skin that don’t heal or look unusual.
How to Perform a DIY Skin Check?
Performing a skin check is straightforward, but consistency and thoroughness are key. Here’s how you can do it effectively:
Gather Your Equipment
Before you start, get yourself a full-length mirror, a well-lit room, and a notebook to note down and track changes over time.
Know What to Look For
You need to identify the signs of Melanoma, including comparing moles, and see the edges of a mole, whether it is irregular or scalloped. Check if there are uneven colors or shades of black, red, brown, or blue. Analyze the size of a mole; if it is larger than 6mm, consult a professional.
You also need to look for any new growths or spots, sores that don’t heal, red or scaly patches, and a mole that feels itchy, painful, or tender.
Examine Your Entire Body
Skin cancer can appear anywhere, even in areas not typically exposed to the sun. Follow this sequence for a thorough exam:
Face and Scalp
- Examine your face, ears, and neck using the handheld mirror.
- For your scalp, part your hair in sections to check for spots or lesions.
Upper Body
- Inspect your chest, shoulders, and abdomen for any mole or lesion.
- Women should lift their breasts to check underneath for any possible skin issue.
Arms and Hands
- Check both sides of your arms, elbows, and underarms.
- See carefully your hand, palms, and fingernails as they are hidden areas.
Legs and Feet
- Examine the front and back of your legs, including knees and thighs.
- Check the tops, soles, and between the toes of your feet.
Back and Buttocks
- Use the hand mirror to check your lower back, buttocks, and the back of your thighs for any signs.
Track Your Findings
If you notice something suspicious, take notes, and photos to monitor the change over time. You have to save the date and mention that unusual change or feel. Then track that spot or mole consistently and consult a dermatologist. This tracking helps them analyze the issue.
When to See a Dermatologist?
It is recommended to perform a DIY self-exam every month and more consistently if you have risk factors. Moreover, if you see any suspicious changes during the self-exam, notice a mole that changes over time, or have a family history of skin cancer, visiting a dermatologist is important. They professionally examine your body with a minimal cost of skin cancer screening through different tools.
Tips for Effective Skin Checks
- Perform the exam after a shower, when your skin is clean and free of products.
- Use a magnifying mirror for small or hard-to-see areas.
- Ask someone to help check areas like your back and scalp.
Ending Note
Skin cancer is a common disease so your few minutes every month can save you from this. It is important to understand and be aware of the possible warning signs and to stay consistent with DIY skin checks. You need to be active in examining yourself timely. If you find any significant change in moles, consult a professional.
Make sure to combine these checks with sun safety habits and regular dermatologist visits can protect your skin for years to come. I hope now you can better perform your self-examination session for your very own safety. Cheers!
