Possible signs of skin cancer you should never ignore

olamide olarewaju

February 12, 2015 1:39 PM

Studies show that darker skin are more prone to skin cancer/melanoma than one thinks and if signs like these present themselves, its time to seek medical help.

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer, which develops in the cells. In women, melanoma is most often seen in the lower legs, while in men the most common place it appears is the back.

Recent studies show that people with darker skin can also develop melanoma where the skin is vulnerable to hidden melanomas in areas like the soles of feet and palms that do not receive sun exposure.

Its important to wear sunscreen as part of a daily skincare routine and stay out of the sun as much as possible but then if you encounter this signs on the skin, you should seek expert help:

1. Investigate every new mole.

If you a new mole appears on the skin especially after the age of 21 and is asymmetrical, has an irregular outline and is bigger than 6 mm or ¼ inch in diameter you should get it checked.

2. An unusual skin spot

Another warning sign of melanoma/skin cancer to never miss is if you notice a spot that looks different from all of the other spots on your skin, you should get it checked.

3. Changes in Mole's appearance

If you have moles on the skin and you notice changes in appearance, changes in color, diameter, shape or size you should get medical helpp. Birthmark, or a pigmented area can also be a sign of melanoma. Symptoms like a scaly appearance and bleeding should not be ignored.

4. Change in sensation

A particular spot or sore on the skin that continues to itch, hurt, crust, erode or bleed should not be ignored. Changes in sensation in the forms of itchiness, tenderness or pain can also be warning signs of melanoma.

5. An open sore

An open sore that does not heal within three weeks can be an early sign of skin cancer. You should get it checked.

Preventive Tips

If you need to go out in the sun, cover up properly , if you are going to stay out in the sun for long wear sunglasses with sun protection.

Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher at least 30 minutes before going out. Do this everyday.

If you can avoid going out in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Examine your skin head-to-toe once every month. Remember that melanoma may not necessarily present itself in the form of a mole, it can occur on otherwise normal-appearing skin as well.

Get professional skin examination every year.

Aditional Sources:

Women Knows, Top 10 Remedies

olamide olarewaju