Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, yet early detection makes it much less dangerous. Understanding the types of skin cancer, the risk factors, and early warning signs can empower you to take action and protect your skin. At South Nassau Dermatology, with offices in Levittown, Long Beach, and Oceanside, NY, our team provides comprehensive skin cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Common Types of Skin Cancer

The three most common types of skin cancer are:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most prevalent form, BCC often appears as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat, flesh-colored patch, or a sore that doesn’t heal. It grows slowly and rarely spreads, but early treatment is important to prevent tissue damage.
  
  
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC typically presents as a firm, red nodule or a scaly patch on sun-exposed skin. While it can be more aggressive than BCC, early diagnosis and treatment are highly effective.
  
  
• Melanoma: The most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma can develop in existing moles or appear as a new dark spot on the skin. It has a higher risk of spreading if not detected early, making vigilance and regular skin checks essential.
  
  

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer, including:

• Excessive sun exposure or a history of sunburns
  
  
• Fair skin, light hair, and light-colored eyes
  
  
• Family history of skin cancer
  
  
• Weakened immune system
  
  
• Age, as risk increases over time
  
  
• Use of tanning beds or artificial UV sources
  
  

Understanding your risk can help guide preventive measures and the frequency of skin examinations at our Levittown, Long Beach, and Oceanside offices. Prevention strategies include using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours, and avoiding tanning beds. Regular skin examinations, both at home and with a dermatologist, are key to catching skin cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages.

Early Warning Signs to Watch For

Detecting skin cancer early is critical. Be alert for changes in your skin, including:

• New growths, bumps, or lesions
  
  
• Sores that do not heal within a few weeks
  
  
• Changes in existing moles, including asymmetry, irregular borders, color variation, diameter, or evolving size and shape
  
  
• Itching, tenderness, or bleeding from a spot on the skin
  
  

The “ABCDE” rule is a helpful guide for assessing moles and spots for melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolving.

Schedule a Skin Check at South Nassau Dermatology

At South Nassau Dermatology, our providers in Levittown, Long Beach, and Oceanside, NY, are experienced in identifying, diagnosing, and treating all types of skin cancer. With comprehensive skin evaluations, patients receive personalized care and guidance on preventive measures to protect their skin health.

 If you notice changes in your skin or want to ensure early detection, schedule a skin check with South Nassau Dermatology. Call us at the following numbers:

• Oceanside Office: (516) 766-0345
   
• Levittown Office: (516) 520-5280
   
• Long Beach Office: (516) 432-7124