Cancer is the result of cells growing out of control and crippling vital portions of the body. The condition can develop in any part of the body and seems especially prone to form on the skin of those often exposed to the sun’s harmful rays without adequate protection. Perhaps the saddest part about skin cancer is the fact that its signs are apparent yet discreet. Here are four types of cancers of the skin that show their presence before wreaking havoc on the body.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. From underneath the microscope, abnormal cells take root in the lowest layer of the skin known as the basal cell layer. Sun-exposed areas such as the head and neck are usually where signs of basal cell carcinoma appear most often. The rough patch on your head, in other words, could be more than a simple sunburn or an annoying rash.

Around two out of ten skin cancer cases is squamous cell carcinoma. The appearance of these abnormal cells is in the outer layer under the microscope. With the naked eye, individuals may notice blemishes and scars on their face, ears, neck, and lips. There may also be scars and bruises on the back of your hands when squamous cell carcinoma is present.

Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that is less common among those diagnosed. The condition develops from melanocytes, which can form benign growths that the general public calls moles. It is important to understand that, although often non-cancerous, moles could also be a sign of cancer development. Such is the reason why it is essential to visit a dermatologist when you discover a mole. Only an expert in the field can determine if blemishes are harmful or not.

Similar to melanoma, nodular melanoma also shows signs via blemishes on the outer layer of the skin. Nodular melanoma, however, is more dangerous because it grows faster than other cancers of the skin. It is necessary to visit a dermatologist when you discover a raised blemish that is either red, pink, brown, or black.

Skin cancer is a devastating disease that claims the life of dozens in the United States every year. Although incredibly dangerous, this condition can be stopped in its tracks by a timely visit to a dermatologist like the Asheboro Dermatology & Skin Surgery Centeror someone similar. It is also essential to understand the various types of skin cancer and how they make their presence known on the outer layer of the skin to shows signs of abnormal cell growth inside of the body.