What Is Skin Cancer? Types, Causes, and Warning Signs

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. It occurs when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Understanding the different types of skin cancer, what causes them, and the warning signs to watch for can help individuals take proactive steps to protect their health.
 

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer begins when DNA damage causes skin cells to grow and divide abnormally. This damage most often results from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. Over time, repeated exposure can lead to mutations in skin cells, eventually causing them to become cancerous.

Skin cancer typically develops on areas of the body that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, scalp, ears, neck, chest, arms, and hands. However, it can appear anywhere on the body, including areas that rarely see the sun.
 

The Main Types of Skin Cancer

There are several types of skin cancer, but the three most common forms include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer and develops in the basal cells located in the lower layer of the epidermis. It typically grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can still damage surrounding tissue if left untreated. BCC often appears as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat scar-like lesion, or a sore that bleeds, crusts, and does not heal, most commonly on sun-exposed areas such as the face and neck.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) forms in the squamous cells that make up the outer layers of the skin. It is the second most common type of skin cancer and can be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma if not treated early. SCC may appear as a firm red nodule, a rough or scaly patch that crusts or bleeds, a persistent open sore, or a wart-like growth. It frequently develops on areas with significant sun exposure, including the face, ears, lips, and hands.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer because it has a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body. It develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment responsible for skin color, and may appear as a new mole or a change in an existing mole. Doctors often use the ABCDE rule to identify possible melanoma: asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color, diameter larger than about 6 millimeters, and any mole that evolves or changes over time.
 

What Causes Skin Cancer?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. The most common cause is excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or tanning beds.

Other risk factors include:

• Fair skin that burns easily

• A history of frequent sunburns

• Spending significant time outdoors without sun protection

• Using tanning beds

• A personal or family history of skin cancer

• Having many moles or unusual moles

• A weakened immune system

• Older age, although skin cancer can occur at any age

Repeated UV exposure damages the DNA in skin cells, which can eventually lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer formation.
 

Warning Signs to Watch For

Recognizing the early warning signs of skin cancer is key to early detection and successful treatment. Some symptoms may be subtle at first, but any noticeable changes in the skin should be evaluated.

Common warning signs include:

• A new mole or growth on the skin

• Changes in the size, color, or shape of an existing mole

• A sore that does not heal

• A spot that itches, bleeds, or becomes tender

• A scaly patch that persists or grows over time

• A lesion that looks different from the surrounding skin

Regular self-examinations can help you become familiar with your skin and identify changes more quickly.
 

The Importance of Early Detection

When detected early, most types of skin cancer are highly treatable. Routine skin examinations by a medical professional, along with regular self-checks, can significantly improve the chances of catching skin cancer in its earliest stages.

Preventive measures such as wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds can also help reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.
 

Concerned About a Spot on Your Skin?

Skin cancer is common, but it is also one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when detected early. Understanding the different types of skin cancer, the causes behind them, and the warning signs to watch for can empower individuals to take control of their skin health. Paying attention to changes in your skin and seeking medical evaluation when something appears unusual can make a critical difference.

Contact Aron Kressel, MD to schedule your skin cancer screening and take a proactive step toward protecting your skin and overall health. Visit our office in New York, NY, or call (212) 772-6968 to book an appointment today.