Australia has one of the world’s highest incidences of skin cancer, with powerful UV rays occurring in most parts of the country. Early detection and proper treatment improve the chances of successful treatment of skin cancers.
Regular skin checks by you or a professional are crucial to detecting skin cancer early. An annual skin check allows your doctor to assess and examine your skin for signs of cancer, including any rash and moles.
Key Takeaways
- Regular professional skin checks are essential because skin cancer can appear anywhere on the body and early detection greatly improves outcomes.
- Performing self‑examination before your appointment and noting any changes helps make the clinical check more effective.
- Avoid makeup, fake tan and nail polish before your appointment so the clinician can assess your skin clearly.
- Loose hair improves the visibility of the scalp, which is a common site for skin cancers but often hard to inspect.
- During the check, a clinician examines your entire skin surface and may use a dermatoscope for detailed inspection.
Why your annual skin check is important?
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. It doesn’t only appear in places frequently exposed to the sun. It appears in areas where the sun doesn’t shine, such as your palms, between your fingers and toes, the bottom of your feet, and your genitals.
Skin cancer often grows in areas that are difficult to spot, such as the scalp, the back of the neck and ears, buttocks, behind the knees, and the back. So the victim may not even be aware that they exist, but with early detection, most skin cancers are highly treatable.
So it is for this reason that regular skin checks by a professional are necessary, and they should be at the top of your annual healthcare routine.
Preparing for a skin cancer screening
Indeed, skin cancer screening is simple and relatively quick. You can do certain things before your visit to ensure that your screening is smooth and stress-free.
- Perform a self-check to prepare yourself with notes of new skin lesions or changes. If you notice a mole or a rash that is changing, take photos so you can monitor changes and make an appointment to see a doctor as soon as possible.
- Avoid makeup and fake tan before your appointment, as they can distort the appearance of your skin lesions, making it difficult for the doctor to examine your skin thoroughly. Also, it is ideal not to wear nail polish to your exam so your skin cancer clinician can see your nail beds.
- Your doctor can only examine what they see, so you must wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you can easily slip on and off. It will make the screening process much easier.
- Wear your hair loose to help the doctor examine your scalp better. The scalp is a common growth zone for skin cancer. Keeping your hair loose and clean will allow the doctor to get a good look at your scalp.
- Come prepared with any questions or concerns you have for your doctor, so all your concerns are addressed. Also, since the genitals are not routinely checked, let the doctor know if there is anything that concerns you.
What should you expect during your skin check?
Skin cancer screening often differs depending on the patient, their skin cancer risk, and medical history, but the screening usually lasts about 15 minutes and generally follows these steps:
- You’ll be asked to remove your clothes and wear a medical gown.
- Your doctor will ask if you have any spots you’re concerned about and then examine every inch of your skin using a small handheld skin microscope called Dermatoscope.
- If necessary, your clinician will perform a skin biopsy which involves removing a part of a suspected lesion for analysis in the laboratory.
- You will get a detailed result of your skin’s current health once the screening is over. If you perform a biopsy, you will receive the results, and if needed, the doctor will discuss a treatment plan with you.
FAQs
Why do some people feel anxious about skin cancer checks?
It is common to feel uneasy about a skin cancer check, often due to uncertainty about the process or concern about potential results. Some people worry about discomfort, privacy, or what might be found during the examination. Others may feel anxious simply because it involves a medical assessment. These concerns can lead to delays in booking an appointment. Understanding what to expect and knowing that the process is straightforward and handled professionally can help ease these worries.
What happens during a skin cancer check?
A skin cancer check usually involves a thorough examination of your skin by a trained professional. You may be asked to change into a gown so all areas can be assessed properly. The clinician will look for any unusual moles, spots, or changes in the skin, often using specialised tools for a closer view. The process is non-invasive and generally quick. If anything needs further attention, the clinician will explain the next steps clearly, ensuring you understand what happens next.
How can you make a skin cancer check more comfortable?
Preparing ahead of your appointment can help you feel more at ease. Wearing comfortable clothing and avoiding makeup or nail polish allows for a smoother examination. Taking note of any spots you are concerned about can also help guide the check. Choosing a clinic where you feel comfortable and asking questions during the appointment can reduce uncertainty. Knowing that the process is routine and focused on your wellbeing can make the experience feel more manageable.
Is a skin cancer check painful or invasive?
A standard skin cancer check is not painful or invasive. It involves a visual inspection of the skin, sometimes supported by a handheld device for closer examination. There are no needles or surgical procedures during the initial check. If a spot requires further investigation, such as a biopsy, this will be discussed separately. For most people, the check itself is quick and comfortable, with minimal disruption to their day.
Why is it important not to delay a skin cancer check?
Delaying a skin cancer check can allow potential issues to develop further without being noticed. Early detection plays a significant role in managing skin cancer effectively, as many conditions are easier to treat when identified early. Even if you feel uncertain or anxious, attending a check provides clarity and peace of mind. Regular assessments help ensure any changes are monitored and addressed promptly, supporting better long-term skin health.
Conclusion
The only way to be certain about your skin’s health is to have a comprehensive annual skin check at a leading skin cancer clinic such as Skin Clinic Robina. Early detection is the key to a cost-effective treatment with a very high chance of success. It is best to book your skin check around a specific date or time of year that you will remember.
