The Importance of Regular Skin Checks: Detecting Skin Cancer Early

Sun lovers need to be extra vigilant about checking for moles and dark spots on their skin. Any unusual blemish could turn out to be skin cancer, and that’s definitely something you’ll need to have taken care of. Unfortunately, many people fail to detect unusual spots and what could have been a treatable issue becomes a major threat to your health. 

At South Wales Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Centre, we understand the critical importance of early detection when it comes to skin cancer, especially as skin cancer remains the most common cancer in Wales. Regular skin checks are essential for identifying skin cancer at its most treatable stages. Here's why routine examinations and professional evaluations are vital for your skin health.

What Are the Dangers of Skin Cancer?

There are different types of skin cancer like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, other types are rarer. These conditions pose significant health risks if not detected early. Melanoma is the most aggressive form and can spread to other parts of the body. Early detection is crucial as it significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and can prevent the cancer from advancing to more dangerous stages.

What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?

Skin cancer can take various forms. Warning signs include changes in the size, shape, or colour of moles or other skin lesions. It’s essential to pay attention to any new growths or sores that don’t heal. Take note of any itching, tenderness, or pain associated with a mole or lesion. Regular self-examinations and professional checks can help identify these changes early.

Top 5 things to look out for when detecting a melanoma:

• asymmetry

• irregular borders

• more than 1 colour

• a wider diameter, larger than 6mm

• a mole that is changing

Use a mirror to inspect all areas of your body, including hard-to-see places like your back and the soles of your feet. Have a family member or friend check these spots if you cannot yourself. If you notice any of the above signs or changes, seek advice from a medical professional right away. 

Skin Cancer Prevention

Prevention is truly best, as all common skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. As a Celtic nation, we usually have pale skin types that are susceptible to sun damage. Sun protection is the best advice, whether clothing, shade, hats, sun tan lotions, specifically SPF 50. Treatment is always easier if detected early. The smaller the lesions, the easier they are to remove, and the outcomes are significantly better. To enable early detection, it is best to monitor your skin and your family’s. If you notice any changes or any concerns, it is always best to get them checked.

The South Wales Specialist Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Centre consists of a team of highly trained clinicians, including oral and maxillofacial surgeon Mr Cellan Thomas, who can conduct skin checks and mole removal in Cardiff. We are one of the few providers of specialist oral surgery and oral and maxillofacial surgery services in South Wales. We are dedicated to providing you with an exceptional level of care and service. Prioritise your skin health today by scheduling a professional skin check or mole removal in Cardiff with our specialist team.