Why Skin Check Matters: How Often Should You Get Yours?
Did you know that skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Australia?
However, it’s also one of the most preventable, if caught early. So, when was your last skin check? If you’re unsure, it’s time to book one. Don’t wait for signs, your health deserves a closer look.
If you’re having your first skin check, it’s normal to feel a bit anxious. But knowing what to expect can ease any concerns. At Main Street Medical Centre, we believe that early detection through regular skin checks can save lives. Let’s explore why skin checks are so important, what you can expect during your appointment, and how often you should get checked.
Why Regular Skin Checks Matter? The Importance Explained
Living in Australia means lots of sunshine. And while it’s great for our outdoor lifestyle, it also increases the risk of skin cancer. In fact, over two-thirds of Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. This makes regular skin checks absolutely essential to our health.
Still not convinced about getting a skin check? Here’s why you should rethink:
Skin cancer doesn’t always come with warning signs. It can develop without causing noticeable symptoms. That’s why skin checks are important as they help catch potential problems. Even on areas of your body you might not normally pay attention to. Here are some of the most common skin cancers detected during these checkups:
- Melanoma: A deadly form of skin cancer. It can spread rapidly if not found early.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Most common type of skin cancer. Though it’s less likely to spread. It can still cause local damage.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Another common skin cancer that can occasionally spread to other organs.
The earlier skin cancer is found, the simpler and more effective the treatment will be. Regular checks provide reassurance, knowing you’re being looked after by a professional who can spot changes early. Additionally, you can avoid expensive and extensive treatments later.
So, don’t wait for symptoms to show up. Prioritise your skin health with regular skin checks to ensure you’re doing everything you can to protect yourself.
How to Get Ready for Your Skin Check? Pre-Skin Check Preparation Tips
Before you head to your skin check appointment, a little prep work can help make the process smoother and ensure you get the most out of your visit. Here’s what to do before your skin check appointment:
Check Your Skin at Home
First off, it’s a good idea to regularly examine your skin at home so you can tell your doctor about any spots or changes you’re concerned about.
Almost a week before your skin check, take some time to do a thorough self-examination. Use a mirror or ask a loved one for help to check hard-to-see areas. Make a note of any spots, moles, or skin changes that stand out. Taking photos can help you track any changes over time.
If you’ve noticed a mole or spot changing in size, shape, or colour, it’s important to get it checked out at a skin cancer clinic as soon as possible.
Wait for a Month After Laser Treatments
If you’ve recently had any laser treatments, it’s recommended to wait at least a month before booking your skin check. Laser treatments can change the appearance of your moles or skin spots. This can make it harder for your doctor to assess them accurately.
Keep Your Normal Skincare Routine
Don’t change your skincare habits before the appointment. Feel free to continue using your usual moisturiser, deodorant, and sunscreen. Keeping your skin hydrated will make it easier for the doctor to examine. As dry skin can sometimes be harder to assess.
Remove Makeup, Nail Polish, and Fake Tan
Before your appointment, make sure to remove any makeup, nail polish, or fake tan. This ensures your skin is clean and no spots are hidden under layers of cosmetics. The more visible your skin is, the easier it is for your doctor to check for any signs of skin cancer.
Wear Comfortable, Easy-to-Remove Clothing
For your skin check, you’ll need to undress down to your underwear. Wear comfortable clothing that’s easy to remove. This makes the process quicker and easier for both you and your doctor, allowing for a more thorough examination.
Leave Your Hair Loose for Scalp Examination
If you have long hair, avoid tying it up before your appointment. The doctor will need to inspect your scalp. And having your hair loose will make it easier to part and check for any spots or moles.
Bring Photos and Notes of Any Concerns
If you’ve noticed any concerning spots or changes in your skin, bring along photos or notes to help the doctor understand what you’re worried about. Being prepared with this information ensures a more thorough discussion about your skin health.
Prepare Questions About Your Skin Health
It’s completely normal to have questions about your skin health or potential risks. Write down any questions or concerns you might have about skin cancer prevention or specific areas you’d like the doctor to examine. It’s always better to ask and be well-informed.
What to Expect During Your Skin Check Appointment?
A skin check is typically a quick procedure, lasting between 10 and 30 minutes. Here’s what happens during your appointment to ensure your skin stays healthy and safe.
Discussing Your Skin Cancer Risk Factors
To get started, your doctor will ask you a few questions to assess your personal and family history with skin cancer.
They’ll want to know if anyone in your family has been diagnosed with skin cancer and if you’ve had any past instances of it yourself. Additionally, your doctor will inquire about your lifestyle habits. Like your level of sun exposure and sun protection routine. This helps them gauge how much sun damage you may have experienced over the years and understand your skin type better.
If you have any specific moles, spots, or areas of concern, don’t hesitate to mention them during this conversation. It’s your chance to bring up anything you’ve noticed that might need extra attention.
The Skin Check: A Thorough Examination
Once the risk factors are discussed, your doctor will move on to the skin examination. You’ll be asked to remove your clothes down to your underwear, and you can either stand, sit, or lie down. Depending on what feels most comfortable.
Using a tool called a dermatoscope, which is a hand-held magnifying device, your doctor will carefully examine your skin layers. This allows them to spot any suspicious changes that may not be visible to the naked eye.
The examination will include areas like your scalp, neck, head, back, fingers, and nails. Your doctor will also check areas of your body that don’t usually see much sun, such as between your toes and behind your ears. The doctor won’t examine your breasts or genital areas unless you bring up any concerns in those regions.
What Happens After the Skin Check?
In most cases, your doctor will be able to identify any potential issues right there on the spot. However, if something looks concerning, they may suggest a biopsy or other tests to confirm a diagnosis.
These additional tests help ensure that everything is as it should be and that any early signs of skin cancer are detected and treated as soon as possible.
Who Should Get a Skin Check?
Anyone can develop skin cancer. But some people are at a higher risk, including:
Risk Factor | Detail |
Fair Skin | Individuals with lighter skin, blue or green eyes, and red or blonde hair are more prone to skin damage from the sun. |
History of Sunburns | Frequent sunburns, particularly in childhood, increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. |
Family History of Skin Cancer | A family history of skin cancer can increase the likelihood of developing it yourself. |
High Number of Moles or Unusual Moles | Having many moles or atypical-looking moles raises the risk of skin cancer. |
Outdoor Workers | Those working in the sun (e.g., construction, landscaping, farming) should get checked more often. |
Weakened Immune Systems | People with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients or individuals with HIV, are at higher risk. |
If you fall into any of these categories, it’s even more important to schedule regular skin checks.
How Often Should You Get a Skin Check?
The frequency of your skin check depends on your risk factors. As a general rule:
- For low-risk individuals: Once a year is sufficient to ensure your skin remains healthy.
- For high-risk individuals: You should aim to get a skin check every six months or as recommended by your GP.
Is your skin trying to tell you something? Don’t ignore the signs!
Get a Professional Skin Check at Main Street Medical Centre
Remember, skin cancer can develop silently, but early detection can save lives. Are you due?
Visit Main Street Medical Centre today. We provide convenient and comprehensive skin checks performed by experienced doctors who prioritize your health
- AGPAL Accredited – Our clinic is accredited by the Australian General Practice Accreditation Limited (AGPAL). We meet the highest standards of medical care.
- On-Site Pathology Services – Get fast results with in-house blood tests and biopsies.
- GP-Led Expertise – Our skilled doctors provide thorough and accurate skin assessments.
Don’t wait until it’s too late!
