What Are the Early Signs of Skin Cancer?
- July 17, 2025
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Australia, with two in three Australians diagnosed by the age of 70. Despite this high prevalence, many cases are treatable if caught early. Recognising the early warning signs and understanding your individual risk can significantly improve your outcomes.
At The Village GP Black Rock, we prioritise education and early detection. Our team offers thorough skin assessments and supports you in maintaining lifelong skin health. In this guide, we outline what you need to know about the early signs of skin cancer and why regular skin checks are crucial.
The Three Main Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer develops when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably. The most common types are:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
This is the most frequently diagnosed skin cancer. It rarely spreads but can cause extensive local damage if untreated. Early signs include:
- A pearly, waxy, or translucent bump
- A flat, flesh-toned or brown scar-like lesion
- A sore that heals and reopens repeatedly
BCC often appears on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and shoulders.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
SCC is more aggressive than BCC and has a higher risk of spreading. It tends to develop on chronically sun-exposed areas and may present as:
- A firm, red nodule or thickened skin
- A scaly or crusted flat patch
- A sore that doesn’t heal, or bleeds easily
These lesions may be tender and often grow over time.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer because it can quickly spread to other parts of the body. Early detection is vital. It may arise from an existing mole or develop as a new spot. Signs include:
- Asymmetry in shape
- Irregular or blurred borders
- Uneven colour with shades of brown, black, or pink
- A diameter larger than 6mm
- Evolving shape, size, or symptoms such as itching or bleeding
Melanoma can appear anywhere on the body, including areas not exposed to the sun.
Can Skin Cancer Appear in Areas Without Sun Exposure?
Yes, melanoma and other skin cancers can appear in areas that do not receive much sun exposure. These include:
- Under the nails
- Palms and soles
- Genital and anal regions
- Inside the mouth
- The eyes (ocular melanoma)
These forms are caused by melanocytes present in those areas, not by UV damage. Though rarer, these types often go unnoticed until they are more advanced, which is why it’s important to be aware of any unusual changes anywhere on the body, not just on sun-exposed skin.
Key Early Warning Signs
It’s important to regularly inspect your skin and note any changes. Warning signs of early skin cancer include:
- A new spot or mole that looks different from others (the “ugly duckling” sign)
- Any lesion that changes in shape, size, colour, or texture
- A sore that doesn’t heal within four to six weeks
- An itchy, tender, or bleeding area
- A flat, crusted patch that persists despite treatment
Non-melanoma cancers may not be dark or highly visible and can resemble pimples, warts, or dry patches.
How to Perform a Self-Skin Check
Conducting regular skin checks at home helps identify changes early:
- Stand in good lighting with a full-length mirror
- Use a handheld mirror to check your back, neck, and scalp
- Examine your arms, legs, underarms, palms, soles, and genital area
- Don’t forget under nails, between toes, and behind ears
- Take photos to track changes over time
Do this monthly so you can spot anything unusual and act early.
When to Seek Medical Advice
You should see your GP promptly if you notice:
- A spot that looks unusual compared to others
- Any lesion that is growing or changing rapidly
- A sore or ulcer that does not heal
- Spots that itch, hurt, or bleed
Even if you’re unsure, it’s best to have any suspicious area examined by a qualified doctor. At The Village GP Black Rock, we provide thorough skin checks with expert care.
Comprehensive Skin Cancer Care at The Village GP Black Rock
Our clinic offers high-quality, personalised skin cancer screening and management for the Black Rock and Bayside communities. We combine medical expertise with a caring approach to ensure you feel informed and supported throughout your check-up and any further treatment.
Whether you’re seeking peace of mind or have noticed something concerning, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get skin cancer if I don’t spend much time in the sun?
Yes. While sun exposure is a major risk factor, skin cancer can develop in areas not typically exposed to the sun due to genetic factors or other unknown causes.
Do skin cancers always hurt or itch?
No. Many skin cancers are painless in their early stages. Pain, itching, or bleeding may appear as the lesion progresses.
Can young people get skin cancer?
Yes. Although skin cancer is more common with age, melanoma is one of the most common cancers in young adults aged 15 to 39.
Is skin cancer more common in men or women?
Melanoma is slightly more common in men, especially over age 50. However, women are more likely to develop melanoma on the legs, while men are more likely to have it on the back or head.
Does having a lot of moles increase my risk?
Yes. People with many moles, especially atypical or irregular ones, have a higher risk of melanoma.
What happens if a suspicious spot is found?
Your doctor may take a biopsy, a small sample of skin to determine whether the lesion is cancerous. If confirmed, treatment options such as surgical removal will be discussed.
Can I prevent skin cancer completely?
You can reduce your risk significantly by avoiding UV exposure, using sunscreen daily, wearing protective clothing, and scheduling regular skin checks.
Book a Skin Check at The Village GP Black Rock
Don’t wait for something to feel wrong. Regular skin checks could save your life. If you live in Black Rock or surrounding areas, contact The Village GP to schedule your skin assessment today. Early detection offers the best chance of a simple treatment and full recovery.
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