Skin cancer develops when skin cells are damaged and begin to grow in an uncontrolled way. This damage most commonly results from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or artificial sources such as tanning beds. Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones and ages and may appear anywhere on the body.
Skin cancer develops when damage to the DNA of skin cells disrupts their normal growth cycle. Healthy skin cells grow, divide and are replaced in a controlled way. When DNA damage is not repaired, abnormal cells may continue to divide and accumulate, forming a malignant tumour. These cancerous cells can invade nearby tissue and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body.
Many skin cancers are slow growing and highly treatable when detected early, but some types can spread to other parts of the body and become serious if diagnosis or treatment is delayed.
The most common cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells over time, increasing the risk of abnormal cell growth. Sources of UV radiation include:
Other factors that may contribute include genetic susceptibility, a weakened immune system, increasing age and a personal history of skin cancer.
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, account for the majority of cases. Melanoma is less common but is responsible for a higher proportion of skin-cancer-related deaths because it is more likely to spread if not detected early.
Skin cancer can occur in anyone, but risk is higher in people who:
People with darker skin tones can also develop skin cancer, although it may be less common and sometimes diagnosed later.
Skin cancer most often develops on areas exposed to the sun, including the face, scalp, ears, neck, arms and hands. It can also occur on areas that receive little sun exposure, such as the palms, soles of the feet, nails and genital skin, particularly in melanoma.
The main types include:
Rarer forms include Merkel cell carcinoma and other uncommon skin tumours.
Skin cancer does not always cause pain or discomfort. Possible signs include:
Changes may develop slowly over time and may not cause symptoms initially.
Seek assessment for skin changes such as:
Melanoma often appears as a new mole or a change in an existing mole. The ABCDE guide can help identify concerning features:
Specialists combine visual and clinical assessment with laboratory and imaging tests to confirm the type and extent of skin cancer.
Key diagnostic steps:
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, prognosis, and patient confidence.
Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT or MRI may be used if there is concern that the cancer has spread beyond the skin.
You should seek medical advice if:
A dermatologist can offer specialist care and advanced treatments.
Treatment depends on the type, location, size, and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences.
The prognosis for skin cancer varies depending on the type and how early it is detected. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are generally highly treatable, and early intervention usually carries minimal risk of complications or spread. Melanoma, while less common, can be more serious; outcomes are excellent when detected early, but delayed treatment increases the risk of metastasis to other organs. Regular follow-up and long-term skin monitoring are essential to ensure early detection of any new or recurring lesions and to maintain overall skin health.
Yes. People who have had skin cancer have a higher risk of recurrence or developing a new skin cancer, which is why follow-up and regular skin checks are important.
While not all skin cancers can be prevented, the following measures reduce risk:
Regular self-examination helps identify changes early. Any persistent or changing lesion should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
If a mole or skin lesion changes in size, shape, colour, or becomes painful, seek professional assessment promptly. Aventus Clinic offers a free online skin cancer evaluation to provide expert, personalised guidance and treatment options.
