The Lowdown On Skin Cancer

Arm yourself with the facts so you know what to be on the lookout for.

- Hallie Levine

Understanding the Different Types

Knowledge is power—read up on the three main forms of skin cancer.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

This type starts in your basal cells, which line your epidermis (the outer layer of skin). According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 4 million cases of basal cell carcinoma are diagnosed each year in the United States, making it the most common form of skin cancer. Anyone with a history of sun exposure can be diagnosed, though it’s most common in those with fair skin, blond or red hair, and green, blue, or gray eyes. Generally, basal cell is the least dangerous of the skin cancers, and it rarely metastasizes.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR An open sore, an irritated red patch, a pink growth, a shiny bump, or a scar-like area. It usually develops on sun-exposed areas of your body, like your face, neck, back, or shoulders.