How to Do a Skin Self Exam

A skin self-exam is a way to check your skin for any unusual growths or changes. Perhaps surprisingly, many melanomas are found by people checking their own skin. And early detection is a good thing, because the earlier a melanoma is detected, the easier it is to treat and the more survivable it is. Learning how to perform a skin self-exam-especially for anyone who has one or more risk factors for melanoma-is critical. You may indeed save your own life.
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, and early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Conducting regular skin self-exams can help identify any suspicious moles or growths that may require further evaluation by a healthcare professional. By following a few simple steps, anyone can learn how to perform a thorough skin self-exam.
The first step in conducting a skin self-exam is to find a well-lit room with a full-length mirror. It is important to have good lighting to ensure accurate observation of any changes or abnormalities on the skin. Additionally, having access to both natural and artificial light sources can help identify any variations in color or texture.
Once in front of the mirror, start by examining the face, neck, and scalp. Use both hands to carefully inspect each area, paying close attention to areas that are often exposed to the sun, such as the forehead, nose, cheeks, and ears. Look for any new moles or growths that have changed in size or shape since the last examination.
Next, move on to examine the upper body including the chest and arms. Women should also lift their breasts to check underneath for any unusual marks or discoloration. Men should pay particular attention to their back and shoulders as these areas are often overlooked during routine examinations.
After examining the upper body, it is essential not to forget about other parts of your body that are often hidden from view. This includes checking underarms thoroughly as well as between fingers and toes where melanoma can sometimes develop unnoticed.
The next step involves using a hand-held mirror or enlisting someone's help to examine hard-to-see areas like your back and buttocks. Stand with your back facing the mirror while using another handheld mirror to observe these regions carefully. If you notice anything unusual during this process, make sure you seek medical advice promptly.
Lastly, do not forget to examine your lower body, including the legs and feet. Pay attention to the soles of your feet, between toes, and even under toenails. Skin cancer can develop in these areas as well, especially for individuals who spend a lot of time barefoot or wear open-toed shoes.
During the skin self-exam, it is important to remember the ABCDE rule for identifying potentially concerning moles or growths. A stands for asymmetry, where one half of a mole does not match the other half. B represents irregular borders, which may be uneven or jagged. C refers to color variation within a mole or growth. D stands for diameter; any spot larger than 6mm should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Lastly, E indicates evolving moles that have changed in size, shape, color or have started bleeding.
Performing regular skin self-exams is an essential practice in detecting skin cancer early on. By following these simple steps and being aware of any changes in moles or growths using the ABCDE rule as a guide, individuals can take control of their own health and seek medical attention promptly if necessary. Remember that prevention and early detection are key when it comes to skin cancer treatment and overall well-being.
The information in this video is correct as of 07 September 2023.
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[@williambanzhof9739]

Thanks! I am a “2B” and find your videos helpful. Looking forward to more videos.

[@FromTheClinicToTheLivingroom]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@rds9872]

Where is the ask an expert line?

[@FromTheClinicToTheLivingroom]

www.aimatmelanoma.org/support-resources/talk-to-a-medical-expert/

[@rds9872]

@@FromTheClinicToTheLivingroom thanks