A skin cancer screening is a professional skin exam performed by a dermatologist to identify suspicious moles, lesions, or skin changes that may require further evaluation. Early detection is one of the most important steps in identifying skin cancer before it progresses. In Houston, regular sun exposure and UV radiation can increase skin cancer risk, making routine skin checks an important part of preventive skin care.
Quick Facts: Skin Cancer Screenings
Skin cancer screenings are painless, non-invasive skin exams performed by a dermatologist
Early detection can help identify skin cancer before it progresses
Most skin checks take approximately 10–20 minutes
What Is a Skin Cancer Screening?
A skin cancer screening is a visual examination of the skin performed by a dermatologist to check for abnormal moles, lesions, or other skin changes that may be signs of skin cancer. These exams are preventive in nature and are designed to help identify concerns early, often before symptoms become severe.
Screenings are non-invasive, typically painless, and may include:
- A full-body skin exam
- Evaluation of specific spots or moles
- Use of a dermatoscope to closely examine the skin
- Discussion of any recent skin changes or concerns
Routine screenings can help identify skin cancer at earlier stages, when treatment options are often more effective.
Who Should Get a Skin Cancer Screening?
Skin cancer screenings are recommended for adults who may have an increased risk of skin cancer or who have noticed changes in their skin.
You may benefit from a skin cancer screening if you:
- Spend significant time outdoors
- Have a history of frequent sunburns
- Use or previously used tanning beds
- Have fair skin, light eyes, or light hair
- Have a family or personal history of skin cancer
- Have many moles or atypical moles
- Notice new, changing, itching, or bleeding skin spots
In Houston, year-round sun exposure, outdoor activities, and high UV levels can increase the risk of sun-related skin damage. Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones, although risk factors and appearance may vary. Regular skin checks can play an important role in preventive dermatology care.
Signs of Skin Cancer to Watch For
Skin cancer can appear in different ways depending on the type and stage of the skin cancer. Common warning signs include:
- New or changing moles
- Irregular borders or uneven coloring
- Lesions that itch, bleed, or crust over
- Non-healing sores
- Raised or painful spots
- Changes in the size, shape, or texture of a mole
The ABCDE Rule for Moles
Dermatologists often use the ABCDE rule to evaluate suspicious moles:
- A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other
- B – Border: Edges appear uneven, blurred, or irregular
- C – Color: Multiple colors or uneven pigmentation
- D – Diameter: Larger than approximately 6 millimeters
- E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms over time
Dermatologists also look for the “ugly duckling sign,” meaning a mole that looks noticeably different from your other moles. If you notice any of these changes, it may be time to schedule a skin exam.
What Happens During a Skin Cancer Screening?
During a skin cancer screening, a dermatologist carefully examines the skin for suspicious moles, lesions, or abnormal growths. Depending on the reason for your visit, the exam may focus on one specific area or include a full-body skin evaluation.
Patients may be asked to change into a gown so the dermatologist can examine areas that are not easily visible during daily routines. A handheld magnifying tool called a dermatoscope may also be used for a closer evaluation of certain spots.
If a suspicious lesion is identified, the dermatologist may recommend monitoring the area or performing a skin biopsy for additional evaluation.
Most screenings:
- Are painless
- Take approximately 10–20 minutes
- Do not require recovery time
- Focus on prevention and early detection
How Long Does a Skin Cancer Screening Take?
Most skin cancer screenings take approximately 10–20 minutes, depending on the number of spots or moles being evaluated and whether additional examination is needed.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are several types of skin cancer, each with different characteristics and levels of risk.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically grows slowly and often appears as a pearly bump, pink patch, or sore that does not heal.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a scaly patch, wart-like growth, or sore that crusts or bleeds. If left untreated, it can spread deeper into the skin or nearby tissue.
Melanoma
Melanoma is less common but more aggressive than other forms of skin cancer. It often develops in or around existing moles and may spread quickly if not identified early.
Learn more about common types of skin cancer and treatment options from the American Cancer Society Skin Cancer page.
Precancerous Skin Changes
Some skin changes are considered precancerous and may increase the risk of developing skin cancer if left untreated. Actinic keratoses are considered precancerous because some may develop into squamous cell carcinoma over time.
One common example is actinic keratosis, which often appears as rough, dry, or scaly patches caused by long-term sun exposure. These lesions are more common in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, ears, arms, and hands.
Early evaluation and treatment of precancerous lesions may help reduce the risk of progression.
Skin Cancer Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including:
- Excessive UV exposure from the sun
- Indoor tanning bed use
- Fair skin or light-colored eyes
- Family history of skin cancer
- Previous skin cancer diagnosis
- Frequent or severe sunburns
- Outdoor occupations or activities
Houston’s climate and long periods of sun exposure throughout the year can increase cumulative UV damage over time, especially for individuals who spend extended time outdoors.
Why Early Detection Matters
Early detection plays an important role in identifying skin cancer before it progresses. Many forms of skin cancer are highly treatable when detected early, which is why routine skin exams are important.
Scheduling regular screenings can also help provide peace of mind and establish a baseline for monitoring future skin changes.
What Happens If Suspicious Skin Changes Are Found?
If a dermatologist identifies a suspicious mole or lesion during your screening, additional evaluation may be recommended. This may include:
- Monitoring the area over time
- Performing a skin biopsy
- Referral for treatment if necessary
Treatment options vary depending on the diagnosis and may include:
- Surgical excision
- Mohs surgery
- Cryotherapy
- Topical medications
- Photodynamic therapy
Your dermatologist will discuss the most appropriate next steps based on your condition and individual needs.
When to See a Dermatologist for a Mole or Skin Change
You should consider seeing a dermatologist if you notice:
- A mole changing in size, shape, or color
- Persistent itching or irritation
- Bleeding or crusting lesions
- New skin growths
- A sore that does not heal
Routine skin exams can help identify concerns early, even before symptoms become noticeable.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening in Houston
Regular skin checks can help identify concerning skin changes early—especially in areas with high UV exposure like Houston. If you’ve noticed a changing mole, unusual skin spot, or simply want peace of mind, schedule a professional skin cancer screening with CLS Health.
Whether you need a preventive skin exam or evaluation of a specific concern, our dermatology team is here to help.
FAQs
A dermatologist performs a visual examination of the skin to evaluate moles, lesions, and other skin changes that may require additional evaluation.
Depending on your concerns and risk factors, your dermatologist may perform a full-body skin exam.
Skin cancer may appear as a changing mole, scaly patch, non-healing sore, or lesion that bleeds, crusts, or changes color.
Some forms of skin cancer may itch, become irritated, or feel tender.
The frequency of skin checks depends on your personal risk factors and medical history. Your dermatologist can recommend an appropriate screening schedule.
No. Skin cancer screenings are typically painless and non-invasive.
Dermatologists can often identify suspicious features during an exam, but a biopsy may be needed to confirm a diagnosis.
Yes. Many forms of skin cancer develop gradually and may not cause noticeable symptoms early on. Preventive skin exams can help identify suspicious moles or skin changes before they become more advanced.