How do you spot the signs of skin cancer?

How do you spot the signs of skin cancer?

Most skin cancers are linked to sunlight exposure, so are often on the face (and arms). But they can be anywhere.

There are three types of skin cancer. There’s malignant melanoma, which is usually spotted in brown moles – you should look out for any changes in these.

Melanoma

Early stage melanoma

Then there’s squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which are little ulcers that often crust over and do not heal, and so become cancerous.

SCC – often on face

SCC – can be on ears

And finally, there is basal cell carcinoma (BCC), which is an unusual form of cancer because it grows very slowly and doesn’t spread anywhere; it’s usually an ulcer that doesn’t heal, doesn’t crust, and just gets bigger and bigger.

BCC – often on nose

BCC – or near eye

If you have any lump or mole that looks like any of these pictures, you need to see your GP soon.

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