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Rajani Shrestha, DO

Medically reviewed by:
Rajani Shrestha, DO

You may be surprised to learn that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States.1 It occurs when abnormal cells in the skin grow out of control. While it can be serious, it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable cancers, especially when caught early.2 There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. These cancers typically develop on parts of the skin that are frequently exposed to sunlight.

Types of Skin Cancer

The skin, the body’s largest organ, has several layers and different cell types.1 The three major types of skin cancer are named based on which skin cells are affected.3

  • Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Squamous cells are found on the outer layer of your skin and are replaced often. If they start to grow too fast, they can turn into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer.
  • Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common form, BCC, starts in cells found in the bottom of the skin’s outer layer, called the basal cell layer. These cells make new cells to replace squamous cells as they shed. If basal cells grow too fast, they can lead to BCC.
  • Melanoma: Though less common, melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer because it can quickly spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma forms in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin (the brown pigment that gives your skin a tan after sun exposure).

Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Yearly skin checks and keeping a watchful eye on your skin are among the best ways to catch skin cancer symptoms early.2 Be on the lookout for new growths, spots that change in shape or color, or sores that don’t heal. Common skin cancer symptoms by type include:

Type of skin cancer Common signs and symptoms
Squamous cell carcinoma Firm red nodule, flat sore with a scaly crust, rough patch. Most likely to occur on areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and back of hands.
Basal cell carcinoma Pearly or waxy bump, flat flesh-colored or brown lesion, or bleeding or scabbing sore that returns. These also are most likely to occur in areas frequently exposed to the sun.
Melanoma Large asymmetrical brownish or black spot with darker speckles or different patches of colors, a changing mole with uneven borders, or a painful lesion that itches or burns. Most likely to grow on the chest and back for men and on the legs for women

If you notice any of these signs, contact your doctor for a thorough skin evaluation.

What Causes Skin Cancer?

The most significant risk factor for developing skin cancer is excessive exposure to the sun or other UV radiation. While all the reasons skin cancer develops are unknown, research has identified several risk factors.

Some known causes and risk factors include:4

  • Overexposure to the sun or use of tanning beds
  • Having fair skin, light-colored eyes, and blond or red hair
  • History of sunburns, especially blistering ones
  • Family history of skin cancer
  • A weakened immune system
  • Exposure to UV light therapy for treating skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema, especially at high dose or with long term use
  • Having many moles or unusual moles
  • Having actinic keratosis (a rough, scaly patch on the skin)

Skin Cancer Treatment

The type of treatment recommended for skin cancer will depend on the type, size, and location of the cancer. Early-stage cancers may only require minor procedures, while more advanced cases may need a combination of therapies.

Common treatments for skin cancer may include:5

  • Excisional surgery removes the tumor and a margin of surrounding healthy tissue. It is commonly used when the cancer hasn’t spread.
  • Mohs surgery: Often used for BCC and SCC, the doctor removes the cancer one thin layer at a time and checks each layer under a microscope. They continue until no cancer cells are left. This helps make sure all the cancer is removed while saving as much healthy skin as possible. This is especially helpful for areas like the face, where keeping healthy skin matters for appearance and function.
  • Cryotherapy: Usually used for small, early-stage skin cancers or precancerous spots. Doctors use liquid nitrogen applied to the skin to destroy cancer cells. Over time, the treated skin may blister, scab, and eventually fall off.
  • Chemotherapy: If cancer has spread to other parts of the body, doctors will use drugs to kill the cancer cells. A drug used to kill cancer cells is referred to as chemotherapy. This may be a pill you take or given through an IV (directly into a vein).
  • Topical chemotherapy (chemo cream): Chemotherapy may be in the form of a topical cream applied to the skin, which is typically used for the early treatment of BCC or SCC.
  • Radiation therapy: A treatment that uses high-energy rays, like X-rays, to kill cancer cells. It’s often used when surgery isn’t possible or in advanced cases.
  • Immunotherapy or targeted therapy: These treatments help the body’s immune system fight cancer cells. Typically used primarily for melanoma.

Skin Cancer Screening

Take the time every month to perform a skin self-exam. Talk with your doctor about any new growths or moles that look suspicious. Further evaluation by a dermatologist or an oncologist (cancer specialist) may be needed. It’s recommended that people with a higher risk of skin cancer have a skin exam by a doctor every year.2

Ready to take the next step? Find a skin cancer specialist near me.

Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Cancer

How do I prevent skin cancer?

The most effective way to reduce the risk of skin cancer is to protect your skin from dangerous UV rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even if it’s cloudy or you’re indoors near windows. Avoid the sun during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm), and stay in the shade when possible. When in the sun, wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses.6 Perform regular skin checks and see a doctor if you notice any unusual changes.

Is skin cancer genetic?

Yes, skin cancer can be genetic. If you have a family history of skin cancer, especially melanoma, your risk may be higher.7 However, this doesn’t mean you’ll get skin cancer. Practicing sun safety, avoiding tanning beds, and getting regular skin checks can help catch problems early and lower your overall risk.

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References:

1. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Skin Cancer Basics. Accessed April 8, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/skin-cancer/about/index.html#:~:text=What%20it%20is,artificial%20sources%20like%20tanning%20beds.

2. Skin Cancer Foundation. Early Detection: Overview. Accessed April 8, 2025. https://www.skincancer.org/early-detection/#:~:text=Spot%20the%20Cancer%20You%20Can,become%20dangerous%2C%20disfiguring%20or%20deadly.

3. National Cancer Institute. Skin Cancer (Including Melanoma). Accessed April 8, 2025. https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin.

4. Skin Cancer Foundation. Risk Factors. Accessed April 8, 2025. https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/.

5. National Cancer Institute. Skin Cancer Treatment. Accessed April 8, 2025. https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/patient/skin-treatment-pdq.

6. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Reducing Risk for Skin Cancer. Accessed April 8, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/skin-cancer/prevention/index.html.

7. Melanoma Research Alliance. How Genetics and Family History Contribute to Melanoma Risk. Accessed April 8, 2025. https://www.curemelanoma.org/blog/how-genetics-and-family-history-contribute-to-melanoma-risk.