Skin self-exam
A skin self-exam is used to identify suspicious growths that may be cancer or growths that may develop into skin cancer (precancers). Adults should examine their skin once every month. Look for any abnormal skin growth or any change in the color, shape, size, or appearance of a skin growth. Check for any area of injured skin (lesion) that does not heal.
See an illustration of a
skin self-exam 
.
12 Ways to Protect Your Skin and Prevent Skin Cancer
By Leslie PepperHow coffee protects you, and 11 other surprising ways to stop the most common cancer 1. All doctors are not created equal: When researchers from Emory University School of Medicine looked at the records of more than 2,000 melanoma patients, they found that those whose growths had been diagnosed by a dermatologist were more likely to have early-stage cancer — and to survive their disease — than those who'd been diagnosed by another kind of doctor. It may be that dermatologists...
Read the 12 Ways to Protect Your Skin and Prevent Skin Cancer article > >
To perform a skin self-exam:
- Stand in front of a full-length mirror. Examine your body front and back, then examine your right and left sides with your arms raised.
- Bend your elbows and look carefully at your forearms, the back of your upper arms, and your palms.
- Look at your feet, the soles of your feet, and the spaces between your toes.
- Using a hand
mirror, look at:
- The back of your legs.
- The back of your neck and scalp. Part your hair to look at your scalp.
- Your back, buttocks, and genital area.
You can also have your spouse or someone such as a close friend help you monitor your skin, especially places that are hard to see such as your scalp and back.
If you see a suspicious skin growth during your self-exam, contact your health professional.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Today in Melanoma
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.