Skin in practice: self-examination, disturbing changes and specialist consultation. Find reliable health and fitness tips on SpotMeUp.
The American Academy of Dermatology encourages regular skin self-exams because early detection of changes increases the chances of effective treatment. The AAD also reports that about half of melanomas are self-detected, which shows that self-observation of the skin really matters.
This is very important because the skin is one of the few organs that can be regularly examined without specialized equipment. AAD reminds that skin cancer can appear almost anywhere: not only on the back or face, but also on the hands, feet, under the nails, in intimate areas and buttocks. In people with darker skin, lesions are more likely to appear in places less exposed to the sun.
The best self-examination does not involve forcing yourself to find the problem. It's more about getting to know your skin and noticing if something is new, different, changing, itchy or bleeding. AAD emphasizes that change is one of the most important alarm signals.
This is why the topic of skin self-examination fits very well into the health and fitness category: it is practical, preventive and can have a real impact on quickly noticing the problem.
How to perform a skin self-examination step by step
The AAD recommends viewing the skin in a well-lit room, using a large mirror and a hand mirror. First you look at the body from the front and back, then the sides with the arms raised, then the arms, hands, between the toes, legs, feet, soles, back, buttocks, neck and scalp.
It is also worth writing down or taking photos of birthmarks to compare whether anything is changing. AAD provides the so-called body mole map to make it easier to notice differences over time.
What to look for: the ABCDE principle
AAD and NCI remind us of the ABCDE principle of melanoma. A means asymmetry, B - uneven edge, C - different colors within one lesion, D - larger diameter, and E - evolving, i.e. change over time. This last element is particularly important, because a change should attract attention even if it does not meet all the other points.
In practice, it is also worth paying attention to a lesion that "looks different from the rest" or starts to itch, ooze, hurt or bleed. AAD indicates such features as a signal for dermatological consultation.
How often to do it
AAD encourages regular skin self-exams. In materials for melanoma survivors, there is a clear recommendation for monthly self-examination, while in materials for the general public, AAD emphasizes regularity and monitoring of changes. In practice, the monthly rhythm is a very useful habit also for people without a diagnosed skin cancer, although the exact frequency of medical check-ups should be agreed individually with a dermatologist.
When to go to a dermatologist
If you notice a lesion that is new, different from others, changing, itchy, or bleeding, the AAD recommends making an appointment with a dermatologist. This does not mean that every such change will turn out to be something dangerous, but this is why we do self-examination - so as not to miss the moment when we need to check something more carefully.
People at higher risk - such as those with a personal or family history of skin cancer - should discuss with their dermatologist how often to have a complete skin examination. AAD emphasizes that the frequency of medical check-ups depends on individual risk factors.
FAQ
Does skin self-examination really make sense?
Yes. About half of melanomas are self-detected.
How often should you check your skin?
It's worth doing this regularly; In practice, the monthly rhythm works well.
What do I need for self-examination?
Good light, a large mirror and a small hand mirror.
Do you also need to check your feet and scalp?
Yes. Skin cancer can appear there too.
What does ABCDE stand for?
Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving.
Is an itchy mole a reason to visit?
May be. AAD indicates, among others: lesion, itching and bleeding as alarm signals.
Do people with darker skin also need to have their skin checked?
Yes, and places less exposed to the sun are particularly important.
Is it worth taking photos of birthmarks?
Yes, they can help you notice changes over time.
When to go to a dermatologist?
When the lesion is new, different, changes, itches or bleeds.
How to find more content about preventive health care in SpotMeUp?
It's best to follow the series about research, prevention and healthy habits.
