Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer — but when caught early, it’s highly treatable. At our clinic, we specialise in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of all types of skin cancer, including Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) and Melanoma
Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is best divided into Melanoma and Non-Melanoma skin cancer
Melanoma
Less common but far more dangerous, melanoma usually appears as an irregular brown or black spot. It may develop from an existing mole or appear as a new lesion on previously normal skin.
Any changing mole or new, unusual spot should be assessed by one of our doctors without delay, particularly if you’re over 30. Caught early, melanoma is highly treatable. Left unchecked, it can spread to other organs.
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
These are far more common and include:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Pre-cancerous conditions such as Actinic Keratoses, Bowen’s Disease, and Keratoacanthoma
When should I see a doctor?
You should book a consultation with us if you notice any of the following:
- A mole or skin lesion that changes in size, shape, colour, or texture
- A spot that bleeds, crusts, or doesn’t heal
- A new mole appearing after age 30
Early detection is key. We recommend checking your own skin monthly — and if you’re unsure, book an appointment so our doctors can check it out for you.
How is skin cancer diagnosed?
If there’s any concern, our doctors may perform a biopsy (removing part or all of the lesion under local anaesthetic) and the sample is sent to a laboratory for diagnosis. You may have stitches, which are typically removed a week or two week later.
What happens if I'm diagnosed with a skin cancer?
Treatment & Prevention following a skin cancer diagnosis
Treatment may involve:
- Minor surgical removal of the lesion
- Topical therapies
- Cryotherapy (treatment with liquid nitrogen)
- Ongoing sun protection and skincare advice
How can I protect myself?
You should wear a factor 30 + sunscreen every day as the harmful effects of UV from the sun is cumulative which means that as a risk factor for skin cancer, it builds up over time. Our doctors will go through instructions on how to use these creams during your Dermatology skin consultation. Avoid sun exposure if possible. In hot sun avoid the sun altogether between the hours of 11am and 3pm, wear long sleeves and consider a sunhat. Do not use sunlamps or sunbeds as they significantly increase your risk of getting a skin cancer.
Worried About a Skin Lesion?
If you’re concerned about any mark on your skin or have a family history of skin cancer — don’t delay.
Book online to arrange a dermatology consultation to review 1-2 moles or a longer full comprehensive skin check with one of our experienced skin cancer doctors.
Get in touch
Adare Dermatology is a patient-focused dermatology Clinic