Actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly patch that develops on skin that’s seen a lot of sun over the years. These spots are most common on the face, scalp, ears, neck, arms, and hands. Though not cancerous themselves, they can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if not treated.

• Dry, rough, or scaly patches of skin
• Pink, red, or skin-colored areas
• Spots that are flat or slightly raised
• Areas that feel tender or irritated

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
• Avoid sun exposure during midday hours
• Wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat
• Skip the tanning beds

• Cryotherapy (freezing the lesion)
• Topical medications (creams or gels)
• Photodynamic therapy
• Chemical peels or laser treatments
• Minor surgical removal

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. It develops in the squamous cells found in the outer layer of the skin and usually appears in areas exposed to the sun. SCC can sometimes spread if not treated.

• Scaly red patches
• Open sores that don’t heal
• Wart-like growths
• Thick, crusted, or raised bumps

To confirm a diagnosis, your dermatologist may perform a skin biopsy. If SCC is found, treatment is typically surgical. Other options depend on the size, depth, and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health.

Common treatments include:

• Surgical removal
• Cryotherapy
• Electrosurgery
• Topical treatments
• Mohs surgery for more delicate areas

When found early, squamous cell carcinoma has a very high cure rate.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer—and the most common cancer overall. It grows slowly and rarely spreads, but it can cause significant local damage if left untreated.

• Pearly or waxy bump
• Flat, scar-like area
• Sore that heals and reopens
• Pink growth with a rolled edge

• Frequent sun exposure
• Fair skin or light eyes
• History of sunburns or tanning bed use
• A personal or family history of skin cancer

• Surgical excision
• Curettage and electrosurgery
• Cryotherapy
• Topical creams
• Mohs surgery for high-risk areas

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It starts in pigment-producing cells called melanocytes and can spread quickly if not caught in time. While it accounts for a small percentage of skin cancers, it causes the majority of skin cancer deaths.

• Asymmetry: one half looks different than the other
• Border: edges are uneven or notched
• Color: multiple shades or unusual colors
• Diameter: larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
• Evolving: any change in size, shape, or color

• Fair skin
• A large number of moles or unusual moles
• Family history of melanoma
• Past history of blistering sunburns
• Use of tanning beds

Melanoma is diagnosed by biopsy. If confirmed, treatment usually begins with surgical removal. More advanced cases may involve lymph node testing, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies. The treatment plan depends on the depth and stage of the cancer.