Symptoms of Skin Cancer

In general if you find a lump or mole that’s unusually firm, or skin patches that are irritated and may not heal properly then you have a reason to be suspicious.

While most people are aware of only 3 types of skin cancer, experts on the symptoms of skin cancer tell us to use the ABCDE method to search for the common five signs of skin cancer. A = asymmetry, B= borders, C = color, D = diameter and E = elevation.

Cancer usually has an irregular, uneven shape that blends into the surrounding skin as opposed to having discernable borders. The color is usually different than neighboring skin (black or red, even brown and blue).

Any mole or growth that exceeds ¼” is one of which to be wary (diameter), and uneven growths that elevate above the skin’s surface are also one of the first signs of skin cancer. Beyond this, Skin cancer rash may appear that’s sore or itchy.

Once the symptoms of skin cancer manifest it’s very important to seek professional consultation. Some skin cancers are highly treatable by seeing a skin cancer surgeon, with the exception of Melanoma Skin Cancer that tends to be far more invasive and aggressive.

In non-melanomas, skin will grow over the cancerous area, and surgery removes what’s necessary (this may leave a hole in the skin).

After the first removal, nearby skin cells will be tested again to see if any residual remains (and if so remove them about 7 days later). About 95% of all cancers removed this way do not return.

Statistics on Skin Cancer – Did you Know?

How to Prevent Skin Cancer- Protecting Yourself:

For more information from a skin cancer survivor, visit Skin Cancer Experiences and read Gary’s personal story of how aggressive squamous cell skin cancer can sometimes be. He beat it and wants to share lots of experiences and information with you. What causes skin cancer, treatment for skin cancer, others stories and more.

Also, the smartest and easiest way to prevent skin cancer is to pay attention to how much unprotected sun exposure you’re getting. Sunscreen is one of the best prevention against skin cancer. However, make sure your sunscreen chemical free.

While, I'm not crazy about the feel of most suncreens (never have been), my new favorite is ultimate defense which completely protects and shields the dermis from damage. Plus, it's chemical free, not greasy, shiny, or sticky. It's great for all types of skin and ages - even for those with mature or oily skin.

I really can't tell I even have it on! Click on the link above to read all the rave reviews of other satisfied users. This is truly the best sunscreen I've ever used. I can't rave enough about it!

Some studies now show that many of the popular sunscreens on the market today contain chemicals that may actually cause skin cancer. A research group called the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that out of 785 sun screens analyzed -- a staggering 84% contained ingredients with safety concerns or did not provide adequate protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

And, researchers from the University of California discovered that some sun screens may not even protect against basal cell carcinoma or melanoma.

• benzophenone-3
• 4-MBC (4-methyl-benzylidene camphor)
• PABA
• octyl-methoxycinnamate (OMC)
• homosalate

Click here Sun Safety to read more.....

If you have questions about the symptoms of skin cancer, would like more skin cancer prevention tips or want to learn more facts about skin cancer you can refer to other articles at Skin Cancer Warning Signs or feel free to Contact us with your questions