Skin Cancer Services

Sunscreens work by absorbing, reflecting or scattering the sun’s rays on the skin. They are available in many forms, including ointments, creams, gels, lotions, sprays and sticks. All are labeled with SPF numbers. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection from sunburn caused mostly by UVB rays; however, this does not increase the length of time for sun exposure.

Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. They do a better job of protecting skin from other effects of the sun, including photodamage, photodermatitis and rashes from sun exposure.

Sunscreens that block UVB rays are composed of some or all of the following chemicals: padimate O, homosalate, octyl methoxycinnamate, benzophenone, octyl salicylate, phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid and octocrylene.

Broad-spectrum sunscreens add oxybenzone or avobenzone (Parsol 1789) to block UVA rays. Mexoryl is a chemical that blocks UVA; its broad-spectrum characteristics allow sunscreens to be made with very high SPF factors. Physical sunscreens/blocks or chemical-free sunscreens contain titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide, which reflect UVA and UVB and are especially useful for people allergic to chemical sunscreens. 

Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before exposure to the sun. Even water-resistant sunscreens should be reapplied often, about every two hours or after swimming, drying off or sweating.

Sunscreen should be applied generously and evenly so as not to miss any areas of exposed skin. It should be kept out of the eyes, and UV light-blocking sunglasses should be worn. Read our sunscreen facts file for more helpful information.

Self-tanning lotions and sprays are a safe alternative to tanning. They contain dihydroxyacetone, which interacts with proteins in the skin to produce an orange/tan color that does not wash off. However, the color of self-tanners only has an SPF of 4. This is not enough protection from the sun; therefore, sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 must be used and reapplied every two hours.

SCC usually looks like a red, crusted, or scaly patch on the skin, a non-healing ulcer, or a firm red nodule. SCC generally appears on sun-exposed areas such as the head, neck, ears, trunk, and arms, but it also can develop on other areas of the body.

With early detection and proper treatment, SCC is curable. Allowed to progress, SCC can invade and destroy much of the tissue surrounding the cancerous tumor, which can be disfiguring.

Some SCCs, such as those that develop on a lip or an ear, can be particularly aggressive. Left untreated, aggressive SCCs have a greater risk for metastasis (spreading) to the lymph nodes and other internal organs. This makes early diagnosis and treatment of SCC essential.

A Water’s Edge Dermatology practitioner should examine any lesion that looks like a red, crusted or scaly patch, or a non-healing sore.

Avoiding unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays is the best form of skin cancer prevention at any age, even if you’ve had an SCC removed. Here’s how you can stay safe in the sun:

• Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more to all exposed skin. Broad spectrum provides protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply approximately about every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, where possible.
• Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade.
• Protect children from sun exposure by playing in the shade, using protective clothing, and applying sunscreen.
• Use extra caution near water, snow, and sand because they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
• Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements. Don’t seek the sun.
• Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look like you’ve been in the sun, consider using a sunless self-tanning product, but continue to use sunscreen with it.
• Check your skin regularly. If you notice anything changing, growing, or bleeding on your skin, see a Water’s Edge Dermatology practitioner. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early.

MCC typically appears as a single, firm bump that is shiny and usually painless. It may be skin-colored, red, blueish-red or purple. It might bleed if it’s been scraped or nicked.

These tumors can develop anywhere on the body, but they most often appear on areas exposed to sunlight, such as the face, neck and arms. They tend to enlarge quickly over weeks and months.

MCC does not appear to run in families. Certain risk factors are thought to increase the likelihood of developing it, including:

• Being over the age of 50, Caucasian and male
• Having a history of heavy sunlight exposure or tanning bed use
• Having had photodynamic therapy for a condition such as psoriasis or vitiligo
• Having a history of other types of cancer
• Having a weakened immune system, either from a condition such as HIV or from taking medication that suppress the immune system

The cause of MCC is not known. In about 8 out of 10 cases, a very common virus that lives on the skin, called Merkel cell polyomavirus, is present. Experts aren’t sure how or whether it contributes to the development of MCC.

You can reduce your risk of MCC and other skin cancers by following these tips:

• Limit sun exposure. This is particularly important when sunlight is strongest, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wear sunscreen every day. Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously at least every two hours.
• Cover up outdoors. Wear sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, long pants and a lightweight long-sleeved top if possible.
• Avoid artificial sunlight. Tanning beds and lamps are just as harmful to your skin as the sun.
• Perform skin checks. Report any bump, freckle or mole that changes in size, color or shape to your doctor ASAP.
• Schedule skin cancer screenings, especially if you’ve had any type of skin cancer in the past.

Every case of cancer is different. Survival rates for MCC depend in part on where it started, how it responds to treatment and whether it has spread to nearby areas, to distant body parts or not at all. The cancer can be fatal, but more than 75% of people whose MCC has not spread are alive five years after diagnosis.

New treatments are being tested in clinical trials.

Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, including melanoma. You can have fun in the sun and decrease your risk of skin cancer. Here’s how to stay safe in the sun:

• Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more to all exposed skin. Broad spectrum provides protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply approximately every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, where possible.
• Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade.
• Protect children from sun exposure by playing in the shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen.
• Use extra caution near water, snow, and sand because they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
• Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements. Don’t seek the sun.
• Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look like you’ve been in the sun, consider using a sunless self-tanning product, but continue to use sunscreen with it.
• Check your birthday suit on your birthday.

Skin cancer is treatable when caught early. You should have your skin examined by a qualified dermatologist once a year to help watch for any changes in your skin or signs of early-stage skin cancer. Additionally, you should also perform regular skin exams on your own.

If you notice any spots on your skin changing, growing or bleeding, you should immediately call your Water’s Edge dermatologist for an appointment. Your provider will examine your area(s) of concern, make a diagnosis and recommend treatment options when appropriate.

Don’t wait! Have your skin screened today by one of our highly skilled skin care experts. Call to schedule an appointment or schedule one online.

People of all colors and races get skin cancer. Those with light skin who sunburn easily have a higher risk. Risk factors include:

• Sunburns
• Family history of skin cancer
• Exposure to X-rays
• Weakened immune system
• Scarring caused by a disease or burn
• Exposure to cancer-causing compounds such as arsenic
• Using indoor tanning devices such as tanning beds and sunlamps also increases the risk of developing skin cancer.

There are different types of skin cancer, and each tends to look a bit different.

Actinic keratosis

These dry, scaly patches or spots are considered the earliest stage in the development of skin cancer. In rare cases, an actinic keratosis (AK) can progress to a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

People who get AKs usually have fair skin. Most people see their first AKs after 40 years of age because AKs tend to develop after years of sun exposure. But even teens can have AKs when they live in sunny areas or use indoor tanning.

AKs form on skin that gets lots of sun exposure, such as the head, neck, hands, and forearms. Because AKs increase the risk of getting SCC, AKs are usually treated. Proper use of sunscreens can help prevent AKs.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

This is the most common type of skin cancer. It frequently looks like a flesh-colored, pearl-like bump. It also can appear as a pinkish patch of skin. Like AKs, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) develops on skin that gets frequent sun exposure, such as the head, neck, and arms. Many BCCs also form on the trunk and lower limbs.

BCC frequently develops in people who have fair skin, but it can occur in people with dark skin. BCC usually does not grow quickly and it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it should be treated promptly. This cancer can invade the surrounding tissue and grow into the nerves and bones, causing damage and disfigurement.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer. This skin cancer often looks like a firm bump, scaly patch, or an ulcer that heals and then re-opens. It is usually reddish in color.

SCC tends to form on skin that gets frequent sun exposure, such as the rim of the ear, face, neck, arms, and trunk. People who have light skin are most likely to develop SCC, but it can also develop in dark-skinned people, especially those who have scarring.

Because SCC can grow deep, it can cause damage and disfigurement. Early treatment can prevent this and stop SCC from spreading to other areas of the body.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive type of skin cancer that’s potentially even more dangerous than melanoma.

It typically appears as a single firm bump that may be skin-colored, red, blueish-red or purple. It can develop anywhere on the body, but it most often appears on areas exposed to sunlight, such as the face, neck and arms. The cancer can spread quickly to other parts of the body.

MCC can affect anyone, but it is most common in Caucasian males over the age of 50. Because it spreads quickly, it’s important to catch it early, when it’s easier to treat.

Melanoma

This skin cancer frequently develops in a mole or appears suddenly as a new dark spot on the skin. Either way, melanoma can be deadly. Every year, more than 76,000 Americans develop melanoma and over 10,000 (nearly one person per hour) die from melanoma, making it the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Are there warning signs for melanoma?

A change is often the first sign of melanoma; therefore, it is important to know where moles appear and what they look like. When detected and properly treated before it spreads, melanoma has a high cure rate.

The ABCDE warning signs of melanoma can help people detect change. Changes that can indicate melanoma are pain, itching, or bleeding in a mole or new spot on the skin.

Atypical Fibroxanthoma

Atypical fibroxanthoma is a rare skin cancer that often appears on the head, ears or neck in the form of a red or pink bump. The lesions are typically small (1 to 2 centimeters in diameter) but often develop quickly. They usually aren’t itchy or painful. They can be crusty, scaly or broken open in the middle, and they may bleed.

Atypical fibroxanthoma is most often caused by cumulative sun exposure and typically appears in older adults with fair skin. It doesn’t normally spread to other parts of the body.

Kaposi Sarcoma

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a rare type of cancer that develops in cells that line blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. Kaposi sarcoma lesions usually appear on the skin and mucous membranes (such as inside the mouth or throat), but they can also develop in the lymph nodes, lungs and digestive tract. They can be flat patches, raised patches or bumps and may be red, purple or brown. They commonly appear on the face, legs and feet.

The lesions are usually painless, but lesions on the legs or in the groin area may cause painful swelling of the legs and feet.

With early detection and proper treatment, the cure rate for BCC and SCC is about 95 percent. When melanoma is detected before it spreads, it also has a high cure rate. Regular skin exams help people find skin cancers early.

One type of skin exam is the skin self-exam. During a self-exam, people examine their own skin for signs of change. If a growth, mole, sore, or skin discoloration appears suddenly, or begins to change, see a Water’s Edge Dermatology practitioner.

People who have spent time in the sun, have a family history of skin cancer (especially melanoma), have many moles or atypical moles, or have other risk factors for skin cancer should see a dermatologist for regular skin exams. Some people should have this exam once a year. Others need more frequent exams. A Water’s Edge Dermatology practitioner will recommend the frequency that is best for each patient.

If the dermatologist sees a potential skin cancer during the skin exam, he or she will remove the growth (or part of it) so it can be examined under a microscope. This is called a biopsy. A Water’s Edge dermatologist can safely and quickly perform this procedure during an office visit.

If the biopsy report confirms that the suspicious growth is skin cancer, more treatment may be needed. When caught early and when the entire growth is removed, sometimes further treatment is not needed.

If further treatment is needed, the dermatologist will choose from an array of medical and surgical treatments for skin cancer. Treatment varies with the type of skin cancer, the size and location of the skin cancer, and the needs of the patient.

Several risk factors increase a person’s likelihood of getting skin cancer. One risk factor is sun exposure. It is important to protect the skin with sunscreen and clothing, and never sunburn.

Another risk factor is light skin. However, people with skin of color get melanoma as well. In skin of color, melanoma usually appears on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, under the nails, in the mouth, or on the genitals.

A few risk factors significantly increase a person’s risk of getting melanoma.

• If one or more first-degree relatives (parent, sibling, or child) has had melanoma, the risk significantly increases.
• Having many moles (50-100 or more) or several atypical moles also increases the risk. An atypical nevus or mole is not cancerous, but because of its different appearance, these moles need to be closely monitored for any changes.
• Having had melanoma also increases your chances of having additional melanomas.

Most skin cancer can be found early.

Your Water’s Edge dermatologist will diagnose skin cancer with a biopsy taken in the office. He or she will remove a small amount of tissue so that it can be examined under a microscope.

If skin cancer is diagnosed, there are a variety of surgical and nonsurgical treatment options available. Treatment depends on the location, size, and microscopic characteristics of the skin cancer, as well as the health of the patient and other factors.

There are five warning signs that may signal the presence of BCC:

1. An open sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and remains open for a few weeks, only to heal up and then bleed again. A persistent, non-healing sore is a common sign of an early BCC.
2. A reddish patch or irritated area, frequently occurring on the face, chest, shoulders, arms, or legs. Sometimes the patch crusts and it may also itch. At other times, it persists with no noticeable discomfort.
3. A shiny bump or nodule that is pearly or translucent and is often pink, red, or white. The bump can also be tan, black, or brown, especially in dark-haired people, and can be confused with a mole.
4. A pink growth with a slightly elevated rolled border and a crusted indentation in the center. As the growth slowly enlarges, tiny blood vessels may develop on the surface.
5. A scar-like area that is white, yellow, or waxy and often has poorly defined borders; the skin itself appears shiny and taut. This warning sign may indicate the presence of an invasive BCC that is larger than it appears to be on the surface.

A Water’s Edge Dermatology practitioner should examine all new growths and changes to your skin.

The most common cause of skin cancer of any kind is exposure to the sun or using commercial tanning beds. People who live in sunny or high-altitude climates are exposed to more UV radiation. Other risk factors include:

• Fair skin
• Blond or red hair
• Blue or green eyes
• Family history of skin cancer
• Weakened immune system
• Received radiation therapy
• Exposure to coal tar, pitch, creosote, or arsenic
• Age

Basal cell carcinoma usually develops over many years, although dermatologists are seeing more people in their 20s and 30s with it.

Only in exceedingly rare cases can BCC spread to other parts of the body and become life threatening, but it can invade and destroy surrounding tissue, causing permanent disfigurement.

When a BCC tumor develops near an organ such as an eye, ear, or nose, or grows near a nerve, this can be especially concerning. If the cancer invades, you could lose an eye. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can prevent this.

Atypical moles tend to vary in appearance. An atypical mole can be larger than other moles. Some are more than one color. Others have a jagged border. These traits also are warning signs of melanoma.

Your Water’s Edge Dermatology practitioner should examine all moles that show any of the following ABCDEs of melanoma:

• A stands for ASYMMETRY: One half is unlike the other half
• B stands for BORDER: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border
• C stands for COLOR: The mole is varied from one area to another, with shades of tan, brown, and black; may also be white, red, or blue
• D stands for DIAMETER: While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, they can be smaller
• E stands for EVOLVING: A mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color

If a mole has any of these traits, it is important to see a Water’s Edge dermatologist. Other changes also should be reported, such as a mole that begins to burn or itch. The number of newly diagnosed melanomas continues to rise. With early detection and treatment, melanoma has a high cure rate.

Atypical moles usually begin to appear at or around puberty. These moles can appear in adults as well. While they can occur anywhere on the body, they most commonly develop on the trunk. Atypical moles rarely appear on the face but may develop on the scalp, head, and neck.

An atypical mole is not the same thing as a melanoma, so an atypical mole does not always need to be treated. If a dermatologist suspects that an atypical mole may be a melanoma, the dermatologist will remove the mole (or part of it) so that the mole can be examined under a microscope. This is known as a biopsy.

Because melanoma can develop within an atypical mole, anyone who has atypical moles should watch these (and all) moles for change. A mole can change in size, color, or shape. It can start to itch or burn. If a mole changes in any way, a Water’s Edge Dermatology practitioner should examine the mole.

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Some people who have many atypical moles have Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome. People with FAMMM syndrome have:

• A first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) or second-degree relative (grandparent, grandchild, aunt, or uncle) who has had melanoma
• A large number of moles, often more than 50, with some moles being atypical moles and the moles often varying in size
• Moles that show certain features when viewed with a microscope
• A person who has FAMMM syndrome should have a full-body screening from a Water’s Edge Dermatology practitioner every three to six months, beginning at puberty. Screenings may be less frequent once the moles appear stable.

Your Water’s Edge dermatologist also may recommend regular examinations from an ophthalmologist (eye doctor), skin photography, or regular screenings for relatives. All of these approaches help with early detection and treatment of melanoma. When detected and properly treated in the early stages, melanoma has a high cure rate.

People with FAMMM syndrome also should examine their own skin at least every three months and possibly more frequently. The purpose of this examination is to find the earliest changes to a mole.

AFX usually affects people with fair skin. It develops more frequently in people in their 70s and 80s and is more common in men than women. AFX is not hereditary.

People with AFX usually have an excellent outcome after treatment, though lesions re-grow in the same area in up to 10% of cases. It’s rare for AFX to spread to other parts of the body.

The best way to protect yourself from AFX is to practice sun safety.

• Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day. When outdoors, reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Avoid spending time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are usually strongest.
• Wear sunglasses with UV protection, a wide-brimmed hat and sun-protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt and pants.
• Do not use tanning beds.
• Schedule skin cancer screenings, especially if you’ve had any type of skin cancer in the past.