How to Spot Possible Skin Cancers

Everyone between the ages of 20 and 40 should be routinely examined by his/her physician at least every 3 years, and every year after the age of 40, according to the American Cancer Society. The American Cancer Society also suggests that everyone perform skin self exams at least once a month. It is important to do these skin self exams every month because we need to become familiar with how our skin looks from month to month, so we can notice any changes. It is a good idea to keep a note book to make entries of the moles, skin tags and other markings we have on our bodies. Many of us spend lots of time primping in front of the mirror, but we don't really check ourselves out in front of the mirror for the overall health of our skin.

After you get out of your bath our shower is the best time to do a skin self exam. Stand in front of a full length mirror, if you have one. If you don't have a full length mirror, they are inexpensive, and well worth their price. It could very well save your life. Now begin to systematically check the surface of your skin from front to back. Really look. Notice the moles and skin tags and birth marks that you may have. Notice where everything is so that you can know if something new develops on your skin.

Lift your arms and check out your skin in the axillary area. Feel there. Do you feel any lumps, bumps or tenderness there? Do you see any lesions there? With your arms up, check out the skin on your sides that your arms usually cover. Do you see or feel anything there that doesn't belong? Check your hands, between your fingers, your arms and your legs and feet. Be sure to check the underside of your feet and between your toes. Melanomas are often started on the legs, ankle areas and on the feet. You will need to check the area between your legs and buttocks with a hand mirror. This is not the time to feel embarrassed. You need to know what is normal and what isn't. If you see or feel something that you feel isn't supposed to be there, see your doctor.