Skin Self-Examination: Essential Monthly Checks for Skin Cancer Patients & Survivors

Regular skin self-examination is one of the most powerful tools for people with a history of skin cancer. Performing a thorough monthly self-exam helps you notice new or changing moles, spots, or lesions early—when they are easiest to treat. For skin cancer survivors, consistent self-checks combined with professional screenings can dramatically improve outcomes and provide peace of mind.

We’re pleased to provide the Body Mole Map to assist you. In addition to checking your own skin regularly, we recommend that our patients undergo an annual full body examination with one of our dermatologic specialists in Rock Hill.

Should you develop a suspicious growth or patch of skin or notice a new or changed mole, please call (803) 329-6030 to request an appointment with one of our dermatologists immediately.

After a diagnosis of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), or atypical moles, your risk of new skin cancers increases. Monthly self-exams catch changes that might otherwise go unnoticed between dermatology visits. Early detection of melanoma, in particular, leads to a 99% five-year survival rate when localized.

• Choose a well-lit room and use a full-length mirror plus a hand mirror.
• Undress completely and examine your entire body systematically—start at your scalp (use a comb or blow-dryer to part hair), face, ears, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, fingernails, torso, back, buttocks, legs, feet, and between toes.
• Apply the ABCDE rule to every mole:
  • Asymmetry
  • Border irregularity
  • Color variation
  • Diameter >6mm
  • Evolving (any change)
• Look for the “ugly duckling” — any spot that looks different from your other moles.
• Take dated photos of concerning areas for comparison next month.

• Perform your exam the same day each month (e.g., first of the month).
• Pay extra attention to sun-exposed areas, scars from previous treatments, and atypical moles.
• Use good lighting and consider a partner’s help for hard-to-see areas like your back and scalp.
• Avoid picking or irritating any spots during the exam.

Schedule an appointment immediately if you find a new growth, changing mole, non-healing sore, itching, bleeding, or any spot that concerns you. Do not wait for your next routine visit.

Monthly skin self-examination is a simple habit that empowers skin cancer patients to stay proactive. Combine it with annual (or more frequent) professional full-body exams at Palmetto Skin and Laser Center for maximum protection.

Start your monthly routine this week. Book your next professional skin check online or call (803) 329-6030. Early detection through self-examination truly saves lives and supports long-term skin health.