Skin cancer symptoms
Skin cancers can look very different and the symptoms can vary. Some of the symptoms are similar to other conditions.
Common symptoms of skin cancer include a sore or area of skin that:
- doesn't heal within 4 weeks
- looks unusual
- hurts, is itchy, bleeds, crusts or scabs for more than 4 weeks
This video explains the importance of going to your GP if you notice any possible cancer symptoms. It lasts for 42 seconds.
If you notice any possible cancer symptoms or any changes that are unusual for you, contact your doctor because early cancer diagnosis saves lives. Due to coronavirus fewer people are contacting their doctor. Your local surgery is ready to help you safely. They can talk to you by phone or video link and can arrange for tests. Whatever happens, tell your doctor if your symptoms get worse or don’t get better. Early diagnosis saves lives. Contact your GP now or go to CRUK.org/coronavirus for more information.
What to look out for
A sore that doesn't heal
The sore can look see through, shiny and pink or pearly white. They can also look red. It may feel sore, rough and have raised edges.
Ulcer
Look out for an area of skin that has broken down (an ulcer) and doesn't heal within 4 weeks, and you can't think of a reason for this change.
A lump
This might be small, slow growing, shiny and pink or red.
Red patches on your skin
These red patches could also be itchy. This could be due to other non cancerous skin conditions. But get it checked to make sure.
Freckles or moles
A change to a mole or freckle can be a sign of another type of skin cancer called melanoma.
Looking for signs of skin cancer
Non melanoma skin cancers tend to develop most often on skin that's exposed to the sun.
To spot skin cancers early it helps to know how your skin normally looks. That way, you'll notice any changes more easily.
To look at areas you can’t see easily, you could try using a hand held mirror and reflect your skin onto another mirror. Or you could get your partner or a friend to look. This is very important if you're regularly outside in the sun for work or leisure.
You can take a photo of anything that doesn't look quite right. If you can it's a good idea to put a ruler or tape measure next to the abnormal area when you take the photo. This gives you a more accurate idea about its size and can help you tell if it's changing. You can then show these pictures to your doctor.
