5 ways to give your skin the checkup it deserves

The next time you look in the mirror, take an extra moment to notice your skin. That mole, freckle, or spot you’ve seen a hundred times, does it still look the same?

Your skin is your body’s largest organ and getting familiar with it through regular self-checks is one of the best ways to protect your health. A simple head‑to‑toe skin exam can help you notice subtle changes that may signal something more serious than a harmless age spot.

Skin cancer is more common than any other type of cancer in the United States. Each year, millions of people are diagnosed with skin cancer, making early detection especially important. When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable.

Adding regular skin checks to your routine can make a real difference. Here are five simple ways to get started on skin self-exams.

1. Look from every angle

When checking your skin, think head to toe and everything in between. Stand in front of a full-length mirror to examine your face, chest, arms and legs. Use a handheld mirror to see hard-to-reach areas like your back, the backs of your legs and the bottoms of your feet.

Don’t forget areas that are easy to overlook, including: between your toes, your nail beds, behind your ears and your scalp.

The goal is to become familiar with what’s normal for you.

2. Remember your ABCDEs

When looking at moles, freckles, or spots, use the ABCDE guideline to help identify warning signs of skin cancer:

• A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
• B – Border: Edges are irregular, notched, or uneven
• C – Color: Multiple colors or very dark pigmentation
• D – Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser
• E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or color over time

If a spot checks one or more of these boxes, it’s worth discussing with your primary care provider.

3. Make it a monthly habit

Consistency matters. Try to check your skin once a month, many people find it easiest after a bath or shower. You may also want to ask a spouse or family member to help look at areas you can’t easily see yourself.

Once you establish a routine, a full skin check usually takes about 10 minutes.

4. Don’t hesitate to get it checked

If you notice a new spot, a change in an existing mole, or anything that concerns you, start a conversation with your primary care provider.

Your provider can examine a specific area or perform a full-body skin screening. If something looks suspicious, they may recommend a biopsy to determine whether the spot is precancerous or cancerous.

5. Start now—at any age

Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of skin tone or age. That’s why it’s important to begin regular skin checks in your 20s or 30s and continue them throughout your life.

If you have a family history of skin cancer, your risk may be higher. Talk with your provider about how often you should have professional skin exams.

Take the next step

Protect your skin and schedule your annual checkup today!

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