May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and as summer amps up and we expose our skin more than usual, this is a perfect time to shine a spotlight on the most common types of cancer. Whether you’re a sun-lover, a beachgoer, or just want to take charge of your skin health, our team at Charleston Dermatology invites you to take time to learn how to protect your skin and recognize early warning signs of skin cancer.

Skin Cancer 101: What You Should Know

Skin cancer develops when skin cells grow abnormally, often due to excessive sun exposure or use of tanning beds. While it is a common type of cancer, outcomes improve when it is caught early. The three most common types of skin cancer are:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma

• The most common type of skin cancer.
• Often appears as a pearly bump, flesh-colored mole, or a sore that doesn’t heal.
• Usually found on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, neck, and scalp.
• Grows slowly and rarely spreads, but can cause damage if untreated.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma

• Appears as a rough, scaly patch, open sore, or wart-like growth.
• Common on areas that get frequent sun: face, hands, ears, and lips.
• Can grow deeper into the skin and occasionally spread to other parts of the body.

3. Melanoma

• Less common, but the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
• May develop in an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot.
• Look for the ABCDEs: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolving shape or size.
• Early detection is crucial; melanoma has less time to spread when it is caught and treated early.

Less Common Skin Cancers

While basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are the most common, we identify and treat other, lesser-known skin cancers, such as atypical fibroxanthoma, dermatofibroscarcoma protuberans, B-cell lymphoma of the skin, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, extramammary Paget’s disease, sebaceous carcinoma, undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, and other lymphomas of the skin.

No matter what type of skin cancer it may be, Charleston Dermatology’s skilled doctors and PAs use the most trusted and cutting-edge techniques to identify and combat skin cancers.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

We recommend an annual skin exam for everyone, and more frequently if you have a history of sunburns, tanning bed use, or skin cancer in the family. But don’t wait for your yearly checkup; schedule a visit if you notice:

• A new or changing mole
• A sore that doesn’t heal
• Persistent itching, bleeding, or crusting
• A spot that looks different from the others (often called “the ugly duckling” sign)

Protect Your Skin Year-Round

Skin cancer may be in the spotlight in May, but prevention is a year-round commitment. Always wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen or higher, seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM, and wear protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats when outside.

At Charleston Dermatology, we’re here to help you stay sun-safe and skin-healthy. If you have questions or need a skin check, book an appointment with one of our dermatologists at www.charlestondermatology.com or call 843-872-3015.

Make May the month you start making skin health a priority year-round.