HOW TO EXAMINE YOUR SKIN
Don't Be Shy!
(This was adapted from the website of Dr. Norman Goldstein of Honolulu. Dr. Goldstein is one of the foremost proponents of skin self-examination and the dermatologist who coined the phrase "Practice Safe Sun."
[Also see the file called: "The Skin Exam: Why?" in this section.
Careful examination of your skin every month will improve your chances of finding early warning signs of skin cancer. This is especially important if:
You have fair skin and sunburn easily.
You have had several blistering sunburns.
You have had a lot of moles on your body.
You have a family history of skin cancer.
Examine your skin in a well-lighted room using a full length mirror and a smaller hand mirror. Undress completely and examine every inch of your skin, including hard to see places. Having someone else help you is important.
1. Examine your entire face including lips and eyelids. Inspect your scalp, neck, and tops of your ears.
2. Examine the front and back of your body. Raise your arms and look at your sides. Check the skin under your breasts.
3. Check all sides of your arms and hands, including between your fingers and fingernails.
4. Examine the back and front of your legs. Use the hand mirror to scan your buttocks and genitals.
5. Sit down to check your ankles and feet, including the soles and between your toes.
Contact your health care provides right away if you notice any changes in your skin such as a new mole or change in an existing mole. Change is the most important factor to be aware of.