A Skin Self-Exam means checking your own skin regularly for any abnormal growths or unusual changes. A skin self-exam helps find any suspicious skin problems early. The earlier skin cancer is diagnosed, the better chance you will have for a cure.
Remember the Skin Cancer Foundation Guidelines for Protection!
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommend that people perform a skin self-exam once a month.
The easiest time to do the exam may be after you take a bath or shower. Women may wish to perform their skin self-exam when they do their monthly breast self-exam. Men may want to do the skin self-exam when they perform their monthly testicular self-exam.
The Warning Signs...
When you are performing the skin self-exam, look for:
New skin markings or growths (moles, blemishes, colorations, bumps)
Moles that have changed in size, texture, color, or shape
Moles or lesions that continue to bleed or won't heal
Moles with uneven edges, differences in color, or lack of symmetry
Any mole or growth that appears very different from other skin growths Any open sore that does not heal within three weeks
How to do it....
Examine your body front and back in the mirror, then look at the right and left sides with your arms raised.
Bend elbows and look carefully at forearms, upper underarms, and palms.
Look at the backs of your legs and feet, the spaces between your toes, and on the sole.
Examine the back of your neck and scalp with a hand mirror. Part hair for a closer look.
Finally, check your back and buttocks with a hand mirror.
If you Spot it....
See a physician immediately, preferably one who specializes in diseases of the skin. Do NOT delay. Skin Cancer is the easiest to cure if diagnosed and treated early. When allowed to progress, however, skin cancer can result in disfigurement and even death.
Remember the Skin Cancer Foundation Guidelines for Protection!
-Seek the shade, especially between 10a and 4pm.-DO NOT BURN.
-Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses,
-Use a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher EVERYDAY.
-Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside.
-Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
-Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over 6 months.
-Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.
-Avoid tanning and UV tanning beds and booths.
Source: Skin Cancer Foundation 2009
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