Knowing the Signs of Skin Cancer
With May marking Skin Cancer Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to shine a light on early detection, safe sun practices, and the latest treatment options available.
It’s not just natural sun exposure that’s causing concern. The growing popularity of sunbeds, particularly among younger people, is also a problem.
Below, we’ll address the signs of skin cancer to look out for, and what your treatment options are if something suspicious appears on your skin.
The Signs of Skin Cancer
One of the most important steps in protecting your skin is knowing what signs to watch out for. Moles that change in size, shape, or colour, or that begin to itch or bleed, should always be checked by a medical professional. Skin cancer can appear anywhere, not just in areas that get the most sun, and it doesn’t always look the same.
A new mobile phone app for checking unusual moles and skin lesions is currently being trialled by the NHS, helping to speed up referrals for patients with suspected skin cancer. It is important to note though that although AI-based apps for checking moles do help with self-monitoring, they are no substitute for a check-up with a medical professional.
Recent headlines, including comedian Katherine Ryan bravely opening up about her melanoma diagnosis, are a timely reminder that skin cancer can affect anyone, at any age.
Melanoma is the most serious type, and early detection is crucial. The sooner it’s diagnosed, the better the outcome. Regular skin checks, either at home or with your GP or dermatologist, ensure that any potential issues are picked up early.
Skin Cancer Treatment Options
If you’re diagnosed with skin cancer, your treatment will depend on the type, location, and stage of the cancer. For many people, surgical removal is the most effective and straightforward option.
Mr Paul Tulley offers specialist treatment for skin cancer, as well as for moles and other skin lesions. In many cases, surgery involves removing the affected tissue with a margin of healthy skin around it to ensure all cancerous cells are gone. The procedure is typically carried out under local anaesthetic, and efforts are always made to keep scarring to a minimum, especially on visible areas like the face, neck, or hands.
For more complex or advanced cases, additional treatment may be needed, such as skin grafting or reconstructive surgery to restore the area after the cancer has been removed. With Mr Tulley’s background in plastic and reconstructive surgery, patients benefit from a high level of precision and aesthetic consideration throughout their care.
It’s also worth noting that Mr Tulley was awarded an MD by the University of London for his research into gene therapy for the treatment of malignant melanoma. So, you’re in expert hands when it comes to understanding the most advanced approaches to skin cancer care.
Protecting Your Skin for the Future
Once you’ve gone through treatment, the focus shifts to monitoring your skin and reducing the risk of future issues. That means staying vigilant, wearing sunscreen year-round, avoiding sunbeds, and wearing protective clothing when needed.
The link between UV exposure and skin cancer is well known, and while sunbeds may seem like a quick fix for a golden glow, the long-term risks far outweigh the short-term benefits. If you’re after a bronzed look, self-tanning products are a much safer alternative.
For those with a history of skin cancer or multiple moles, regular follow-ups with a skin specialist are key. If you’ve noticed a change in a mole, have a new lesion you’re worried about, or simply want peace of mind, don’t delay seeking help. A consultation with a skilled and experienced specialist like Mr Paul Tulley can help you understand your options and make a plan that puts your health first.
Skin cancer might be common, but with the right care, early action, and expert support, you can navigate treatment confidently and protect your skin for the future.
