18
Dec
What are seven common signs and symptoms of skin cancer that you shouldn’t ignore?
We all love soaking up the sunshine, but it is essential to monitor changes in our skin to detect the signs of skin cancer. In fact, did you know that melanoma is one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer? The good news is that when caught early, it is often highly treatable, so learning what to watch for can truly save lives. Dr. Sang Kim at Beyond Skin Dermatology in Aurora, Colorado, is here to empower you with knowledge. Let’s explore seven signs of melanoma to look out for to avoid the spread of skin cancer:
- A strange mole. Most moles are harmless, but if one stands out from the crowd in size, shape, or color, it might be time to take a closer look. A strange mole is one that just doesn’t resemble your other moles.
- Changing colors. If a mole or spot starts changing colors, whether it develops shades of red, blue, white, or black, it could be a warning sign. Healthy moles tend to stay consistent in color over time, so this might be a good time to connect with a dermatologist.
- Jagged or irregular edges. A healthy mole typically has smooth, defined edges, like a perfect circle or oval. If you notice a mole with uneven, blurry, or jagged borders, it might be worth getting checked out.
- Growth. Is your mole suddenly growing or expanding? Bigger isn’t always better, especially when it comes to skin health. Any significant size change indicates melanoma and is worth a professional opinion during a skin cancer screening at Beyond Skin Dermatology.
- Persistent pain or itching. Moles are typically just there, and they don’t usually cause discomfort or demand your attention. But if a spot on your skin suddenly becomes itchy, tender, or even painful, it is time to take note. Your skin might just be trying to tell you something.
- Bleeding or oozing moles. Healthy moles do not bleed or ooze fluid randomly. If one of your spots starts doing either of these things (without any obvious injury), it could point to something more serious.
- A spot on the skin that does not heal. We all get scrapes and scratches, but they usually heal up in a matter of weeks. If you have a wound or lesion that stubbornly refuses to heal or even seems to be getting worse, it is time for expert advice.
What can I do to protect my skin and ensure early detection?
Your skin is your body’s largest organ. It works hard for you every day, so make sure you’re returning the favor! If you have noticed any of these signs or just want a professional eye on your skin, don’t hesitate to schedule a checkup with Dr. Sang Kim at Beyond Skin Dermatology in Aurora, Colorado. They’re passionate about helping you feel confident in your skin while ensuring it’s as healthy as can be. The office is located at 1444 S. Potomac Street, Suite #240, and can be reached by dialing (720) 213-4679 to schedule your skin cancer screening.
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Dr. Sang Kim, MD, FAAD, DipABLM, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Beyond Skin Dermatology. With over a decade of medical experience, Dr. Kim graduated from the Uniformed Services University and served as a Naval Flight Surgeon before completing his dermatology residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he was Chief Resident. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine and a member of the American Academy of Dermatology. Dr. Kim is committed to helping patients achieve healthy skin through expert care and lifestyle optimization.