Early Signs of Skin Cancer to Watch For

Detecting changes in your skin at the earliest possible stage is one of the most effective ways to ensure successful treatment outcomes. With the high altitude and frequent sun exposure in South Jordan, UT, staying vigilant about new or changing spots is a vital part of your health routine. At Jordan Valley Dermatology Center, our team provides comprehensive screenings to help patients identify the warning signs of skin cancer before they become a serious threat.

The ABCDEs of Melanoma 

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, but it is often highly treatable when caught early. We encourage all our patients to memorize the ABCDE rule when examining their moles. A stands for Asymmetry, where one half of the spot does not match the other. B is for Border; look for edges that are ragged, blurred, or irregular. C represents Color, specifically if the spot has multiple shades of brown, black, or even red and blue. D is for Diameter, as most melanomas are larger than a pencil eraser. Finally, E stands for Evolving, which involves any change in size, shape, or color over time.

Identifying Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma 

While melanoma often gets the most attention, basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are much more common. Basal cell carcinoma frequently appears as a pearly or waxy bump, or a flat, flesh-colored, or brown scar-like lesion. It may also look like a sore that bleeds, crusts over, and then returns. Squamous cell carcinoma often presents as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface. These often develop on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, and hands. If you notice a "pimple" that hasn’t healed after several weeks, it warrants a professional evaluation at our South Jordan, UT, office.

Actinic Keratosis: The Precancerous Warning 

Before a spot becomes skin cancer, it may appear as a precancerous growth known as actinic keratosis. These typically look like small, rough, scaly patches on the skin. You might feel them before you see them, as they often have a sandpaper-like texture. While not yet cancerous, these lesions have the potential to develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. Our dermatologists can quickly identify and remove these spots during a routine skin exam, preventing future complications.

Schedule Your Professional Skin Exam 

Self-exams are a fantastic first step, but they do not replace the trained eye of a specialist. At Jordan Valley Dermatology Center, we use advanced tools to look deep into the layers of your skin, spotting irregularities that may not be visible to the naked eye. Residents of South Jordan, UT, can rely on our expertise to provide peace of mind and proactive care. If you find a spot that looks suspicious or has started to itch, bleed, or change, do not wait to seek an expert opinion. Schedule an appointment by calling us at (801) 569-1456.