How to Perform an At-Home Skin Exam

When it comes to skin cancer, early detection makes all the difference. Checking your skin regularly can help you spot changes before they become serious. 

David Murray, MD, FAAD, and Frank Don, DO at Jacksonville Beach Dermatology have been diagnosing and treating skin cancer for a long time. Knowing how to do a self skin exam can give you peace of mind and help catch potential concerns early if you are in Jacksonville Beach or nearby Neptune Beach.

How to Do a Skin Exam at Home

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, but it is also one of the most treatable when caught early. 

If you spend a lot of time in the sun, have fair skin, or have a family history of skin cancer, regular at-home skin exams are even more important. The goal is to notice new spots or changes in existing moles before they become a problem. Here’s how to do a self-check:

Set Up Your Space

Find a bright room with a full-length mirror and a handheld mirror to check hard-to-see areas. Natural light is best if possible.

Check Every Part of Your Skin

Start at your head and work your way down. Look at your scalp, face, neck, chest, arms, hands, legs, feet, and back. Pay extra attention to areas that do not get much sun, like under your arms and between your toes.

Know What to Look For

Use the ABCDE rule to check moles:

• Asymmetry: One half does not match the other.
• Border: Edges are irregular or blurred.
• Color: Multiple shades of brown, black, red, or white.
• Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser.
• Evolving: Any noticeable change over time.

Document Any Changes

Take photos of moles and spots to compare over time. If something looks different, itchy, or does not heal, do not wait to get it checked.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you notice any suspicious changes, visit Jacksonville Beach Dermatology for a professional exam. Even if everything looks fine, annual skin exams with our dermatologists are an important part of prevention.

Call 904-247-4300 to schedule an appointment with our experienced dermatology team in Jacksonville Beach. Your skin health is worth it.