top of page
Western Landscape

Skin Cancer

At SWAE Skin, we are dedicated to helping you achieve the most healthy skin possible. We offer specialized services for various skin conditions, including skin cancer. There are many types of skin cancers, but the ones most commonly seen are the following:

  • Basal Cell Skin Cancers (most common)

  • Squamous Cell Skin Cancer

  • Melanomas (less common but most deadly)

Many skin cancers are known to be induced by UV light. This is the most important reason that we recommend sun protection. However, some skin cancers arise in areas not seen by light, underscoring the importance of comprehensive skin examinations.

 Tips & Tricks

At SWAE Skin, our approach combines the latest medical advancements with personalized care to help you manage and treat skin cancer effectively. We are committed to providing compassionate, effective care to help you live confidently and healthily. Schedule a consultation today to start your journey towards clearer, healthier skin.

Sun Protection

Since UV light is a major cause of skin cancer, it's essential to protect your skin from the sun. Wear sun protective clothing, seek shade and use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher as part of your overall protection. Sunscreen should be the last line of defense.

Regular Skin Checks

Perform monthly self-examinations to check for any new or changing moles or spots. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so be vigilant about monitoring your skin.​ Consider taking photos of harder to see areas such as the back.
 

Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Do not use them prior to travel as they are not part of a safe system  to reduce sunburns. Frequent use is strongly linked to skin cancer.

Types of Skin Cancer

Freckled Skin

Basal Cell Skin Cancer

  • Prevalence: Basal cell skin cancer is the most common type of skin cancer.

  • Growth and Spread: These cancers rarely spread to other organs but will continue to grow if untreated, causing skin breakdown and ulcers.

  • Signs and Symptoms: Look for a persistent pimple-like spot, a bright pink dry scaly patch that sometimes bleeds, or bleeding during baths or face washing.

  • Treatment: Treatment often involves surgical destruction or excision, and if they are thin, sometimes a cream is used. Some families may develop hundreds of these cancers in their lifetime.

Lips

Squamous Cell Skin Cancer

  • Squamous cell skin cancer has many forms. Some are very treatable and some are aggressive.

  • ​Metastasis Risk: Squamous cell skin cancer can metastasize or spread to other parts of the body, which can be deadly.

  • High-Risk Areas: High-risk sites include the lip and the ear.

  • Risk Factors: Higher risk in people with organ transplants on immune suppressive medications, those on certain medications like voriconazole, and women often find them on the lower legs.

  • Signs and Symptoms: Typically appear as a small marble-like growth with a central crater or dry scaly patches that bleed.

Close Up on Eyes

Melanoma

  • Potential: Melanoma can be deady but is very treatable if detected.

  • Spread and Treatment: It is more likely to spread if not caught early, but newer treatments have shown incredible promise and are saving livess.

  • Signs and Symptoms: Melanomas can be very dark (black, grey, blue) or rarely without pigment. Pay attention to changing moles or new spots that bleed easily or won’t heal. Check for dark spots under the nails and on feet and hands.

  • Risk Factors: Include family history, intense sunburns, multiple moles, among others.

  • ABCDEs of Melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolution in appearance.

bottom of page