Skin Cancer

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for approximately 80% of all cases. It originates in the basal cells, which are located in the deepest layer of the epidermis. BCC typically develops in areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders, and back.

• Appearance: BCCs often present as pearly or waxy bumps, frequently with visible blood vessels, or as flat, flesh-colored or brown scars. They may also appear as open sores that bleed, ooze, or crust and remain open for weeks.
• Behavior: While BCC rarely metastasizes, it can cause significant local damage if left untreated, eroding into surrounding tissues and bones. The growth is typically slow, and the lesion may appear as a shiny, pearly papule or nodule with a smooth surface, rolled borders, and arborizing telangiectatic surface vessels.
• Prognosis: With early detection and treatment, BCCs are highly treatable and have a low risk of recurrence. Treatment options include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, cryotherapy, topical treatments, and photodynamic therapy.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer. It arises from squamous cells, which make up the middle and outer layers of the skin. SCC often develops in areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and backs of hands.

• Appearance: SCCs often appear as red, scaly patches, open sores, or elevated growths with a central depression. They may also present as a wart-like growth that crusts or bleeds.
• Behavior: SCCs have a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body compared to BCCs, especially if they are not treated promptly. The risk of metastasis increases in patients who are immunosuppressed. The average risk of nodal metastasis in SCC is approximately 3%. Larger tumors, recurrent lesions, and those located on mucosal surfaces or in immunocompromised individuals have a higher risk of metastasis.
• Prognosis: When detected early, SCCs are highly treatable. However, larger or untreated SCCs can be more aggressive and may require more extensive treatment. Treatment options include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, radiation therapy, and topical treatments.

3. Melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. It originates in melanocytes—the pigment-producing cells responsible for skin color. Melanoma can develop on normal skin or from existing moles, and it can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early.

• Appearance: Melanomas can develop on normal skin or within existing moles. They often appear as irregularly shaped, multicolored lesions with uneven borders. The ABCDEs of melanoma detection are:
• Asymmetry: One half of the mole or spot does not match the other half.
• Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
• Color: The color is not uniform and may include different shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
• Diameter: The spot is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• Evolving: The mole or lesion is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation—or is displaying new symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting.
• Behavior: Melanoma is more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early. It can metastasize to lymph nodes and distant organs, making early detection and treatment crucial.
• Prognosis: Early-stage melanomas have a high cure rate, but the prognosis worsens significantly if the cancer has spread to other organs. Treatment options include surgical excision, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

When to Seek a Skin Cancer Evaluation

Regular self-examinations are vital for early detection of skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using the ABCDE method to identify potential melanomas:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole or spot does not match the other half.
• Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
• Color: The color is not uniform and may include different shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
• Diameter: The spot is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• Evolving: The mole or lesion is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation—or is displaying new symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting.

Additionally, be aware of:

• New growths: Any new mole or spot that appears on the skin.
• Changes in existing moles: Any change in the size, shape, color, or elevation of an existing mole.
• Bleeding or crusting: Moles or spots that bleed or develop a crust.

Prevention and Protection

While not all skin cancers are preventable, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• Regular skin checks: Perform monthly self-examinations and schedule annual skin evaluations with a dermatologist.
• Sun protection: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
• Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a healthy diet, avoid smoking, and limit alcohol consumption to support overall skin health.

Your Skin Health Matters — Let CoCo Dermatology & Cosmetics Help

At CoCo Dermatology and Cosmetics, your skin health is our top priority. Our board-

certified dermatology team is committed to providing comprehensive skin cancer screenings, early diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans using the latest medical and cosmetic dermatologic techniques.

Whether you're concerned about a suspicious mole, want a full-body skin check, or simply wish to learn more about protecting your skin, we’re here to guide you with expertise and compassion. We also offer advanced cosmetic services to help you feel confident in the skin you’re in—because skin care is both health care and self-care.

Don’t wait! Early detection saves lives.

Schedule your skin cancer screening with CoCo Dermatology and Cosmetics today!

We look forward to helping you achieve healthy, radiant skin.