Skin cancer, which refers to the abnormal growth of cells on the outer layer of the skin, is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide. It primarily develops on the skin most exposed to the sun, so it is extremely important to check the skin after a long stay outdoors for suspicious changes. However, this can be difficult to determine if you are not sure what to look for.
Everyone can develop skin cancer, but some people may be more at risk, such as people with lighter skin, who burn more easily, reports Express. Early diagnosis will give you the best chance of successful cancer treatment.
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Here are the common symptoms of different skin cancers.
What does skin cancer look like?
Skin cancer can take many forms on the body because the cancer is different in type. It can look shiny pink and waxy, rough and crusty or discolored and lumpy, it all depends on the variation.
The three most common types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common symptoms of basal cell skin cancer are:
Pearl or wax cone
Flat scar-like formation of flesh or brown color
Bleeding or scabs that heal and return
Common symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma include:
Hard, red bump
Flat lesion with scales, crusty surface
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And signs of melanoma, which can occur on skin that has not been exposed to the sun, include:
Large discolored spot with darker spots
A mole that changes color, size, feeling or bleeds
Therefore, if you have new, itchy, discolored spots on the skin, it is important to make an appointment to see a doctor.