When was the last time you took a good look at your scalp, back, or even the bottoms of your feet? If your answer is something like, "Umm, what skin check?" Don’t worry! You’re in the right place. Here’s a straightforward guide to making self-skin exams a breeze.
As a dermatologist with over 15 years in the field, I can tell you that self-care includes a monthly self-skin exam. It’s simple, empowering, and vital to catching early skin changes that could affect your health.
Why Self-Skin Checks?
Early detection of skin lesions and skin cancer can be life-saving. When we catch these changes early, treatment can be straightforward and much less invasive. By checking your skin monthly, you empower yourself to catch changes early, often leading to better outcomes and less intensive treatments.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
- A well-lit room
- A large mirror and handheld mirror
- No clothes (They get in the way of a thorough check!)
How to Start:
The key is to be systematic. Develop a routine so you don’t overlook any areas. I recommend using both your eyes and your hands. Running your fingers over your skin can help detect any new lumps, bumps, or textures that might be hard to spot visually.
Scalp: Start with your scalp. Use your fingers to feel for bumps and a handheld mirror to inspect the back. It’s even smart to ask your hairdresser to alert you to anything that looks odd.
Face: Check all angles of your face. Pay special attention to sun-exposed areas like your nose, eyelids, ears, and lips, where skin cancers are common.
Neck and chest: The neck and upper chest are sun-sensitive areas. Feel for any gritty patches, which could be precancers.
Arms and hands: Examine all sides of your arms, including the armpits, nails, and palms.
Torso and back: Don’t forget to check under any folds of skin. For the back and buttocks, use a handheld mirror or ask for help.
Genital area: Yes, this area is essential too. Look for any unusual lesions or sores that don’t heal.
Legs and feet: Inspect all sides, including the bottoms of your feet and between your toes.
Track Changes With Photos
If you have a mole or spot that you’re monitoring, a quick photo each month can be a helpful reference. Notice any changes? Book a checkup with your dermatologist to ensure all is well.
Embrace Your Skin’s Health Journey
The more often you check your skin, the better you’ll know what’s normal for you. And if something stands out as the "ugly duckling" of your spots or moles, it’s your cue to get it checked.
Taking charge of your skin health doesn’t have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. By dedicating a few minutes each month, you’re investing in a healthy, empowered future for yourself and your skin. So grab a mirror, go step by step, and remember, you’ve got this!
Photo Credit: E+ / Getty Images
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