Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It is a slow-growing cancer that typically develops in areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and arms. BCC is caused by damage to the DNA in the skin cells, which can be caused by UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds.

Symptoms of BCC can include a sore that does not heal, a raised or flat lesion that is waxy or pearly in appearance, or a scar-like area on the skin that is red, white, or pink. In some cases, there may be no visible symptoms at all.

BCC is usually diagnosed by a dermatologist through a biopsy, in which a small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope. Treatment for BCC may include surgery to remove the cancerous cells, radiation therapy, or topical creams. If caught early, BCC is highly curable.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that affects the squamous cells, which are the thin, flat cells found in the outer layer of the skin. SCC is most commonly caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays or to other sources of UV radiation, such as tanning beds.

Symptoms of SCC can include a sore that does not heal, a raised or flat lesion that is red or scaly, or a wart-like growth on the skin. In some cases, there may be no visible symptoms at all.

SCC is usually diagnosed by a dermatologist through a biopsy, in which a small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope. Treatment for SCC may include surgery to remove the cancerous cells, radiation therapy, or topical creams. If caught early, SCC is highly curable.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in the cells (melanocytes) that produce pigment in the skin. Melanoma can be serious because it can spread to other parts of the body if not caught and treated early.
Melanoma is most commonly caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays or to other sources of UV radiation, such as tanning beds. It is also more likely to occur in people with fair skin, light hair, and eyes, as well as in those with a history of sunburns or excessive sun exposure.

Symptoms of melanoma can include a new or changing mole, a mole that is asymmetrical, a mole with uneven or jagged edges, a mole that is more than one color, or a mole that is larger than a pencil eraser. It is important to see a dermatologist if you notice any of these changes on your skin.

Melanoma is usually diagnosed by a dermatologist through a biopsy, in which a small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope. Treatment for melanoma may include surgery to remove the cancerous cells, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. The specific treatment will depend on the stage and location of the cancer.