Do you remember the last time you had your skin checked? If the answer is “never” or “a long time ago,” you’re not alone. Skin cancer screenings often fall low on the priority list for many adults, but the truth is that they shouldn’t. With skin cancer being one of the most common cancers, a simple annual check could be the first step in catching something early — or better yet, ensuring that your skin is completely healthy.

This post dives into why annual skin cancer screenings are critical, what to expect during one, and how they could quite literally save your life.

Skin Cancer Is More Common Than You Think

Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70? Trying to beat those odds without regular screenings is a gamble you don’t want to take. Early detection is your best weapon against this disease, with survival rates skyrocketing when skin cancer is caught early.

Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t matter if you’re a lifelong sun worshipper or someone who’s only had a handful of beach days. Even those with darker skin tones, who tend to have slightly lower risks, are still susceptible. Factors like family history, tanning bed use, and prolonged sun exposure increase risk, but skin cancer can strike anyone.

An annual skin cancer screening can help spot abnormalities long before you notice them yourself.

What Happens During a Skin Cancer Screening?

If you’ve avoided scheduling a screening because it sounds intimidating, don’t worry—there’s nothing scary about it. A standard appointment with a dermatologist typically involves the following steps:

  1. Discussion of Medical History

Your dermatologist will kick things off by asking about your medical history, particularly regarding any past skin issues, family history of skin cancer, or recent changes you’ve noticed in your skin.

  1. Head-to-Toe Examination

This is where your doctor examines your skin from head to toe, looking closely for moles, spots, or growths that seem unusual. Don’t fret—this process is non-invasive and surprisingly quick.

  1. Recommendations or Next Steps

If your doctor finds anything that warrants a closer look, they’ll discuss follow-up options. This could involve monitoring a spot, biopsies, or recommending protective measures for future prevention.

The entire process typically lasts 15-30 minutes. Simple, right?

Why Make Screenings Annual?

While one screening is undoubtedly better than none, making it an annual routine drastically improves your chances of early detection. Here’s why recurring skin cancer screenings are a game-changer:

  • Skin Changes Over Time

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it changes constantly. Moles can grow, spots can darken, and new patches can appear out of nowhere. Annual screenings ensure changes are tracked over time.

  • Skin Cancer Can Be Sneaky

Some forms of skin cancer, like melanoma, can spread quickly and become life-threatening in less than a year. Frequent check-ups mean you aren’t giving skin cancer a chance to go unnoticed.

  • Peace of Mind

Sometimes, it’s not about what’s found— it’s about knowing there’s nothing to worry about. Annual screenings provide that reassuring peace of mind.

Signs It’s Time to See a Dermatologist

While annual screenings should be a non-negotiable, there are situations where you shouldn’t wait for your next scheduled check-up. Call your dermatologist immediately if you notice:

  • A mole that changes in size, shape, or color
  • A sore that doesn’t heal for weeks
  • Persistent itching or tenderness in a patch of skin
  • A new growth that looks unusual

You can also use the ABCDE rule to assess moles or spots on your body. This method helps you identify signs of melanoma:

  • Asymmetry One half doesn’t match the other
  • Border Edges are irregular, blurry, or uneven
  • Color The mole has multiple colors or shades
  • Diameter Larger than a pencil eraser (approximately 6mm)
  • Evolving Any changes over time

If you spot any of these, don’t wait. Early intervention saves lives.

Prevention Comes First

While screenings are important, prevention is your first line of defense. Here’s how you can lower your risk of skin cancer while protecting your skin every day:

  • Wear Sunscreen Daily

A broad-spectrum SPF 30 (or higher!) should become your go-to, even on cloudy days.

  • Avoid Tanning Beds

Nothing says “skin cancer risk” quite like artificial UV exposure.

  • Cover Up

Use wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and sunglasses when in the sun for extended periods.

  • Seek Shade

Try to minimize sun exposure during peak hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Prevention isn’t a substitute for skin cancer screenings, but it’s a strong partner in keeping your skin healthy.

Don’t Take Skin Cancer Lightly

We tend to take our skin for granted. It’s part of our everyday appearance, and it’s easy to forget just how essential it is to our overall health. But our skin tells a story—about our habits, our genes, and sometimes, potential health risks just waiting to be uncovered.

By making annual skin cancer screenings a priority, you’re taking a proactive step to protect yourself. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or someone who doesn’t typically think about your skin, these screenings can help prevent serious complications.

Take time today to book your appointment. Your skin deserves that care—and so do you.

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