Skin Cancer Screening

April 10, 2026

This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Gaurav Singh, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.M.S., Mohs Micrographic Surgeon and Dermatologist, City of Hope^® Cancer Center Chicago.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and worldwide, but it’s also one of the most treatable when found early. Because skin cancer often starts with changes that are visible on the skin, experts recommend that people get to know their skin so they can check it regularly for anything unusual, including a monthly self-examination.

Skin Cancer Check: Why It’s Important

Because skin cancer often starts as a minor change on the surface of the skin that people can see or feel, performing a routine skin check is one of the most effective ways to detect skin cancer early — when it’s easiest to treat. If patients learn the normal marks or moles on their bodies, they may notice anything new or different and catch problems before they grow or spread. Early detection gives patients more treatment options and may provide better outcomes.

In addition to performing skin checks at home, some people may need more frequent professional exams by a doctor or dermatologist — especially if they’re at higher risk for developing skin cancer. This includes people who have many moles or atypical moles, a personal and/or family history of skin cancer, a weakened immune system from medical treatments or conditions, or other risk factors. A dermatologist or primary care provider may help determine how often each person should have a clinical skin check.

Even people who are seeing a doctor regularly should check at home between visits, if possible.

How to Check for Skin Cancer

Follow the following steps to perform a head-to-toe skin self-check at home.

Choose the Right Place and Resources

• Pick a well-lit room, ideally after a shower or bath when the skin is clean and easy to see.
• Use a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror for hard-to-see areas.
• Ask a family member or friend to help with places like the back or scalp.

Start at the Head

• Check the face, ears and neck carefully.
• Use the hand mirror and a comb or blow-dryer to part the hair and check the scalp.

Work Downward

• Look at the front and back of the torso (lift breasts to check underneath).
• Check the underarms, arms and hands, including between fingers and under fingernails.

Check Legs and Feet

• Sit down to inspect the thighs, shins, feet, toes and toenails.
• Use the hand-held mirror to see the backs of the legs, calves and the bottoms of the feet

Don’t Miss Hidden or Hard-To-See Areas

• Use mirrors to look at the back, buttocks, genital area and lower back.

Take Note of Baseline Skin Appearance

• On the first exam, spend time learning where all moles, freckles and spots are and what they normally look like. That way, it’s easier to spot changes later.

Look for Changes or Unusual Spots

• Pay attention to new marks or old ones that are changing in size, shape, color or texture, or spots that bleed or don’t heal.

What to Do if a Concerning Spot Is Found

Many skin changes are harmless, but if a suspicious mole or spot is discovered during the self-exam, get it checked by a professional. It may be helpful to take a photo or write down how it appears.

The care team will guide next steps, which may include a visit to a dermatologist or, if needed, a skin biopsy to examine the tissue for cancer cells under a microscope.