What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells become abnormal and grow in an uncontrolled way.

The 2 types of skin cancer are non-melanoma skin cancer and melanoma skin cancer.

Non-melanoma skin cancer may also be called basal cell cancer or squamous cell cancer, and is usually found in the outer layer of the skin. It tends to appear on the sun exposed areas of your body such as your head, face, arms and legs.

Non-melanoma skin cancers can appear as: A small lump that is smooth pearly or waxy. A flat red spot that is scaly, crusty or bleeding. A lump that is rough, scaly, or has a crusted surface and may be sore. Or as rough, scaly, irregular patches.

Skin changes are not always skin. Cancer spots and sores are common but it's important to talk to your doctor if you notice anything unusual.

Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland. The number of people being diagnosed with skin cancer is rising yet skin cancer is largely preventable by protecting your skin.

Your risk of developing skin cancer is increased: If have been exposed to UV rays from the sun. Use sunbeds or have ever used a sunbed. If you have pale, fair or freckled skin that tends to burn easily. Or have grey, green or blue eyes. If you have a change to an existing mole and a lot of moles. If you had a severe sunburn as a child or adolescent. If you have had a previous skin cancer or a close family member who has had skin cancer. If you work outdoors. Or if you have a weakened immune system.

People with dark or black skin have less risk of sunburn, but can still develop skin cancer from UV damage.

Many skin changes are harmless. However, if you notice a change or are worried about a mole, the first step is to go to your doctor. This is important.

Your doctor will do a skin examination. You may then be referred to a skin specialist called a dermatologist for further tests. The dermatologist may decide to do an incision biopsy. This means the entire mole or affected tissue is removed and examined in the laboratory to determine if it is cancerous or not.

Excision biopsy is often the only treatment needed for non-melanoma skin cancer. Some people may need additional treatment.

The other main type of skin cancer is called melanoma. It occurs skin cells that make melanin. Melanoma is a more serious skin cancer than non-melanoma because of the ways it develops and its ability to spread.

Melanoma can appear as a mole that has changes in colour, size and shape. Melanoma mainly develops in moles but it can develop in other tissues and parts of the body, such as the eye, feet and nails. So, remember to check these areas of your skin when you're checking for moles and changes in your skin.

The main treatment for melanoma skin cancers is surgery to remove the mole and area around it. This can usually cure it. Treatment may also include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, or radiotherapy.

Remember, checking your skin regularly or asking your doctor to examine your skin is a very helpful way for you to notice any skin changes. You should photograph any suspicious moles to help keep track of any changes. Talk to your doctor if you notice any anything unusual.

You can check your skin for any skin changes or new moles by examining your body front and back in the mirror. Then your right and left sides with your arms raised. By bending your elbows and looking carefully at your forearms, underarms, and palms. And looking at the backs of your legs and feet, and the spaces between your toes and soles. You can check the back of your neck and scalp with a hand mirror, parting your hair for a closer look. Also check your back and buttocks with a hand mirror.

Be SunSmart because 9 out of every 10 skin cancers are caused by UV rays from the sun. Remember, to seek shade, cover up, wear wraparound sunglasses, and use sunscreen.

Spotting cancer early is important. Learn what to look for and check your body for changes. Talk to your doctor if you notice anything unusual for you.

For more information about skin cancer, go to our website: cancer.ie/skin

You can also call our Support Line free of charge and talk to one of our cancer nurses on 1800 200 700

Or you can email our cancer nurses on the Support Line at: supportline@irishcancer.ie