What Does Skin Cancer Look Like? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and early detection is your best defense. The good news is that most skin cancers are treatable when caught early—but that depends on knowing what to look for. So if you’ve ever asked yourself, what does skin cancer look like, you’re in the right place. Understanding the visual warning signs can help you take action and protect your health.
The Main Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer develops when skin cells grow abnormally, often due to UV radiation from sun exposure or tanning beds. The three most common types are:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – The most common and usually slow-growing.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – Often develops in sun-exposed areas and may spread if left untreated.
- Melanoma – Less common but more aggressive and potentially life-threatening.
Each type of skin cancer has its own appearance, so it’s important to know how to recognize them.
What Does Skin Cancer Look Like? Visual Clues by Type
Basal Cell Carcinoma
If you’re asking, what does skin cancer look like when it’s basal cell carcinoma, here’s what to watch for:
- A pearly or waxy bump
- A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
- A sore that bleeds, scabs over, then returns
BCC often appears on the face, neck, or shoulders—areas that get frequent sun exposure. While it rarely spreads, it can damage surrounding tissue if ignored.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
SCC may look like:
- A red, scaly patch or crusty bump
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- A raised growth with a central depression
This type often forms on the ears, scalp, backs of hands, and lips. It may spread if untreated, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Melanoma
Melanoma is what most people picture when they think about skin cancer. But what does skin cancer look like in this form? Use the ABCDE rule:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
- B – Border: Irregular, ragged, or blurred edges
- C – Color: Uneven shades of brown, black, red, or white
- D – Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser (6mm)
- E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or elevation
Melanomas can develop from existing moles or appear as new spots. They can occur anywhere on the body—not just sun-exposed areas—so regular full-body skin checks are important.
Less Common But Serious Types
There are rarer forms like Merkel cell carcinoma and sebaceous gland carcinoma that are more aggressive. These may look like:
- Firm, shiny nodules
- Rapidly growing red or purple bumps
- Swollen, painful lesions around the eyes or eyelids
Because they’re rare, these often go unnoticed until advanced stages, making early evaluation even more important.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You don’t need to know for sure what does skin cancer look like to seek help—just trust your instincts. Make an appointment if you notice:
- A sore or spot that doesn’t heal in 2–3 weeks
- New growths that change in size, color, or shape
- Itching, tenderness, or bleeding for no clear reason
At Surgical Associates of Tulsa, we perform skin lesion evaluations and removals, including both benign and malignant cases. If you’re worried about a suspicious spot, don’t wait.
Skin Cancer Risk Factors to Consider
Knowing your risk can help you stay vigilant. You’re at higher risk if you:
- Have fair skin or freckles
- Burn easily in the sun
- Have a history of sunburns or tanning bed use
- Have a family history of skin cancer
- Spend a lot of time outdoors without sun protection
Even if you don’t fit these categories, anyone can get skin cancer—regardless of age, skin tone, or lifestyle.
How Is Skin Cancer Diagnosed and Treated?
If your doctor suspects skin cancer, they’ll likely perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the type, size, and location but may include:
- Excisional surgery – Removal of the lesion and surrounding tissue
- Mohs surgery – Precision removal for facial or high-risk cancers
- Cryotherapy – Freezing small, early-stage lesions
- Topical medications or radiation therapy in select cases
Early-stage skin cancers are highly curable with minimal scarring, especially when addressed promptly.
Final Thoughts
So, what does skin cancer look like? It can take many forms—bumps, sores, dark spots, or even colorless patches. That’s why any new or changing skin lesion should be taken seriously. If you notice something suspicious, the skilled team at Surgical Associates of Tulsa is here to evaluate and, if needed, treat the issue with expert care. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen—schedule your skin check and take control of your health today. Contact Surgical Associates today to schedule your consultations.