Skin Cancer Screening

Skin Cancer Screening FAQs

• How can I get checked for skin cancer?

  Skin cancer screenings are typically performed by skincare doctors, skin specialists, and/or dermatologists. To look for these providers near you, type “skin cancer screening near me” into your search engine, or use Solv’s directory to locate only the highest-rated providers in your local area. Solv allows you to book an appointment with a skincare doctor directly from its website.

• What is skin cancer screening?

  Skin cancer screening can help identify signs of skin cancer on your body. It is a visual exam that requires no machines or special devices, though your dermatologist may use a magnifying glass to inspect certain marks more clearly, says the NIH. These skin cancer tests can often help detect cancer so you can have it treated in its early stages.

• Who should I see for skin cancer screening?

  Skin cancer screening is usually performed by a board-certified dermatologist, reports Stony Brook Medicine. Your general physician can give you a referral to a skincare doctor or dermatologist who performs skin cancer screenings. You can also use Solv to read reviews about top-rated dermatologists in your area who offer this service and make an appointment from Solv’s website.

• Who should be screened for melanoma?

  Anyone can get melanoma, says the CDC. However, certain factors may increase your risk of getting this type of skin cancer. People who should be screened for melanoma, according to the University of Rochester, are those with frequent sun exposure, moles, fair skin, light hair, and a family or personal history of skin cancer. Melanoma skin cancer detection can also benefit those who use tanning beds or who have a compromised immune system, adds the university.

• What should I do if I spot an odd-looking mole?

  An odd-looking mole may be a sign of skin cancer, says the NIH. Signs of an odd-looking mole include oozing, bleeding, crusting, and/or irregular borders that bleed easily, adds the NIH. Make an appointment with your skincare doctor or dermatologist if you spot an odd-looking mole. Your provider can perform a skin cancer test along with a biopsy.

• Who has a higher risk of skin cancer?

  According to the CDC, people with a higher risk of skin cancer generally have light-colored skin, blue or green eyes, blond or red hair, and skin with freckles or that burns easily in the sun. Other factors that put you at high risk of skin cancer include having a personal or family history of skin cancer and being an older adult.

• How can I protect myself from the sun?

  Protecting yourself from the sun can often reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Steps you can take to protect yourself from the sun include, according to the NIH, wearing a hat and sunglasses, spending time in the shade whenever possible, and using a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Stony Brook Medicine also recommends wearing pants and long-sleeved shirts in the sun and avoiding tanning beds.

• Where can I get a skin cancer screening near me?

  Type “dermatologist near me” into your search engine to find local providers of skin cancer screening. Better yet, use the search feature on Solv to locate only the highest-rated skincare doctors and dermatologists in your area. Solv makes it convenient for you to find nearby doctors and virtual visits to get high-quality medical care promptly.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Rob Rohatsch, MD|Updated on Oct 25, 2024

Dr. Rob Rohatsch leverages his vast experience in ambulatory medicine, on-demand healthcare, and consumerism to spearhead strategic initiatives. With expertise in operations, revenue cycle management, and clinical practices, he also contributes his knowledge to the academic world, having served in the US Air Force and earned an MD from Jefferson Medical College. Presently, he is part of the faculty at the University of Tennessee's Haslam School of Business, teaching in the Executive MBA Program, and holds positions on various boards, including chairing The TJ Lobraico Foundation.

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