Key points
- Talk to your doctor if you notice changes in your skin.
- Know the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma.
What does skin cancer look like?
A change in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer. This could be a new growth, a sore that doesn't heal, or a change in a mole.
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma can look like a shiny bump, a pink or red scaly patch, or a sore that doesn't heal and is crusty or bleeds.
Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma usually appears as a firm, red or skin-colored bump, a scaly patch, or an open sore that bleeds.
Melanoma
The A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma describe the warning signs. Talk to your doctor if you notice any of these changes in your skin:
A. Asymmetrical: The mole or spot has an irregular shape with parts that look different.
B. Border: The border is jagged.
C. Color: The color is uneven.
D. Diameter: The mole or spot is larger than a pea.
E. Evolving: The mole or spot has changed over the past few weeks or months.
More information
- Moles to Melanoma: Recognizing the ABCDE Features (National Cancer Institute)
- What Does a Mole Look Like? (National Cancer Institute)
- Basal Cell Carcinoma Warning Signs & Pictures (Skin Cancer Foundation)
- Pictures of Squamous Cell Carcinoma (American Academy of Dermatology Association)
- Melanoma Pictures to Help Identify Skin Cancer (Mayo Clinic)