Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Posted on: May 7th, 2026 by Our Team

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. It is a time to raise awareness about the most common cancer in the United States and the importance of prevention, early detection, and regular skin cancer screenings. While skin cancer can affect anyone, certain individuals are at higher risk and may benefit greatly from routine skin checks and proactive sun protection habits.

At Essential Dermatology, we believe education and prevention are powerful tools in protecting your long-term skin health. We provide comprehensive skin cancer screenings and evaluations for suspicious moles and changing skin lesions for patients in Rolesville, Wake Forest, Raleigh, Knightdale, Youngsville, Wendell, and Zebulon and beyond. Whether you are concerned about a new spot, a changing mole, or simply due for a routine skin cancer screening, regular dermatology visits can help identify skin cancer early when it is most treatable.

Skin cancer occurs when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to cumulative ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure from the sun or tanning beds. The three most common forms of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma.

BCC is the most common type of skin cancer. It often develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, and arms. BCCs may appear as pearly/shiny bumps, non-healing sores, pink patches or scar-like areas. Although basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can become locally destructive if left untreated.

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. SCC may appear as scaly red patches, crusted or wart-like growths, or tender, nonhealing sores. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, SCC has a higher potential to spread, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or delayed diagnosis.

Melanoma is the most serious and potentially deadly form of skin cancer. It develops from pigment-producing cells called melanocytes and may arise from an existing mole or develop as a new dark spot on the skin. Warning signs of melanoma are commonly remembered using the “ABCDE” rule:

• Asymmetry
• Border irregularity
• Color variation
• Diameter larger than 6 mm
• Evolving or changing lesions

When detected early, melanoma is highly treatable. However, advanced melanoma can spread rapidly to other organs.

While anyone can develop skin cancer regardless of skin tone or ethnicity, some groups are at increased risk and should strongly consider routine skin cancer screenings.

People with fair skin/freckles, blond/red hair, or light-colored eyes tend to burn more easily and have less natural protection from UV radiation. Individuals who spend substantial time outdoors, whether recreationally or occupationally, accumulate more UV damage over time. People with a history of blistering sunburns, especially during childhood or tanning bed use significantly increases melanoma risk.

If you have previously had skin cancer, your risk of developing another skin cancer increases. A family history of melanoma may also increase your risk.

Patients with weakened immune systems, including organ transplant recipients, individuals on immunosuppressive medications, or those with certain medical conditions. have a substantially higher risk of aggressive skin cancers.

People with many moles or atypical (dysplastic) nevi may have an increased melanoma risk and often benefit from regular dermatologic monitoring.

Conversations surrounding sun protection are sometimes complicated by the fact that sunlight also offers important benefits. Moderate sun exposure plays a role in Vitamin D production, regulation of circadian rhythms, mood and mental well-being. However, excessive UV exposure accelerates skin aging and significantly increases skin cancer risk. The goal is not to fear the sun entirely, but to practice balanced, intentional exposure. In many cases, individuals can maintain healthy vitamin D levels through limited incidental sun exposure, diet, and supplementation when appropriate while still prioritizing skin protection.

Sun safety should focus on minimizing excessive and unprotected UV exposure rather than complete sun avoidance.

One of the most effective ways to reduce skin cancer risk is through consistent sun protection.

Broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Important sunscreen habits include use of daily SPF 30 or higher, generous application to all exposed skin, reapplication every 2 hours when outdoors, reapplication after swimming or sweating

Sunscreen should be worn year-round, even on cloudy days, as UV rays can still penetrate through clouds.

Protective clothing offers another important layer of defense against UV exposure. This includes wide brimmed hats, sunglasses, long-sleeved lightweight clothing, and UPF-rated apparel. Sun-protective clothing is especially valuable for individuals who spend extended time outdoors. Whenever possible, minimize direct sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV radiation is strongest. Skin cancer screenings can save lives. Many skin cancers are highly treatable when detected early, often before symptoms develop.

During a professional skin examination, a dermatologist evaluates the skin from head to toe for suspicious lesions or changes that may not be obvious to patients. Early detection may reduce the need for more extensive surgery, improve cosmetic outcomes, lower the risk of cancer spreading, improve survival rates for melanoma

Many skin cancers are painless in early stages, which is why routine screenings are particularly important for high-risk individuals.

Whether you have a personal history of skin cancer, significant sun exposure, or simply want peace of mind, professional skin cancer screening is an important part of maintaining your overall health.

At Essential Dermatology, we are committed to helping patients protect their skin through education, prevention, and early detection. Skin Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect reminder to prioritize your skin health not just this month, but year-round.