What a Dermatologist Looks for in a Skin Check
Here's exactly what happens in a skin check, so you'll finally book one.
The AAD projects 234,680 new U.S. melanoma cases in 2026 (122,680 in situ; 112,000 invasive).
The landmark Nambour trial concluded melanoma may be preventable through regular sunscreen use in adults.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get a skin check?
Examine your own skin about monthly, and see a dermatologist for a professional check at least yearly — more often if you have many moles, fair skin, a history of sunburns or skin cancer, or a family history. Early detection makes melanoma highly treatable.
What does the ABCDE mole rule mean?
ABCDE is a checklist for spotting possible melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than about 6 mm (a pencil eraser), and Evolving size, shape or color. Any mole meeting these — or simply changing — warrants a dermatologist's evaluation.
How many sunburns increase skin cancer risk?
Risk rises with cumulative burns: research links five or more sunburns to roughly double the risk of melanoma, and even one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles lifetime risk. Preventing burns at every age meaningfully lowers risk.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'How often should I actually get a skin check?'
Sources & citations
- Green AC et al., 'Reduced Melanoma After Regular Sunscreen Use,' J Clin Oncol 2011;29(3):257-263, doi:10.1200/JCO.2010.28.7078
- aad.org ↗