Skin Cancer Symptoms

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 commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. Although skin cancer symptoms may vary from person to person, some common signs of skin cancer apply to the most common skin cancer types, which are basal cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma.

Early Skin Cancer Symptoms

Some common early symptoms of skin cancer include:

• The appearance of a new spot or mole on the skin
• Changes in the size, color or shape of an existing mole or spot
• A patch of scaly, dry skin
• A shiny bump on the skin that may be the same color as the surrounding skin or red
• A spot or mole that itches or becomes sore

Advanced Skin Cancer Symptoms

When skin cancer is more advanced, a person may experience the symptoms listed above as well as other common symptoms of more advanced skin cancer, such as:

• A bump or spot that bleeds and does not heal normally
• Sudden or significant changes in the appearance of an existing mole or spot on the skin
• A raised bump on the skin, which may also bleed or scab over
• Changes to the skin that look like a scar but have no defined borders

What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?

The appearance of skin cancer lesions may vary depending on skin cancer type, a patient’s skin tone and a variety of other factors. However, some common things to look out for when examining the skin for signs of skin cancer are listed below.

Basal cell carcinoma: This is the most common skin cancer type and tends to be slow-growing. It may look like an open sore or ulcer that does not heal or keeps coming back; a red, pink, white or translucent bump; or white or yellowish scar tissue with a poorly defined border.

Squamous cell carcinoma: The second most common type of skin cancer, this is also slow-growing. It may look like scaly, dry or rough red skin; an ulcer or open sore that does not heal properly; or a rough bump or lump that may become crusty or sore.

Skin Cancer Versus Mole

Most people have moles, which are small spots on the skin that are usually brown or black. In most cases, if a mole stays the same over time, it does not have a high risk for being cancerous. However, if an existing mole begins to change in size, shape, color, border or feel, then patients should see a dermatologist for further evaluation, as this may be a sign of certain types of skin cancer.

Skin Cancer Versus Sun Spots

Sun spots, sometimes called liver spots, are flat, brown spots on the skin caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV rays). Many people develop sun spots as they age. Sun spots usually have defined borders and do not change in size. If they do change in appearance or texture, they should be examined by a dermatologist.

Skin Cancer Versus Freckle

Freckles are a very common type of small, brown spot on the skin that may be caused by exposure to sunlight. They are normally harmless. However, if a freckle starts to grow in size, change in shape or feel different to the touch, then it should be examined by a dermatologist.

What Does Skin Cancer Feel Like?

Some skin cancer lesions do not cause any change in sensation. However, some people with skin cancer experience soreness or itching at the site of a lesion. Others may feel the skin at the site of the lesion become rough or scaly over time.