Overview

Skin cancer is a cancerous growth of skin cells that usually happens when you spend too much time in the sun or use tanning beds. It usually occurs on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, neck, arms, and hands, but it can occur anywhere. The three main types are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma is the most aggressive type. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world. Regular skin checks that find problems early greatly increase the chances of successful treatment and lower the risk of complications.

Symptoms
The symptoms vary by type. A new growth on the skin, a sore that won't heal, or a mole that changes size, shape, or colour are all common warning signs. Melanoma might look like a dark, irregular spot with irregular edges. You should see a doctor right away if a skin lesion itches, bleeds, or crusts over.

Causes
The main risk factor is too much exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Having fair skin, light hair, and a history of sunburn increases your risk of getting it. Using tanning beds a lot, having a weak immune system, having a family history of skin cancer, and having a lot of moles all increase the risk. Long-term sun exposure has a significant effect on development.

Diagnosis
The first step in diagnosis is to look at suspicious lesions. A biopsy is done to make sure that cancer is present and to find out what kind it is. If there is worry that the disease has spread to lymph nodes or other organs, imaging tests may be needed.

Treatment
The kind and stage of the disease determine how it is treated. Surgery is the most common treatment, and it often works in early cases. For advanced melanoma, doctors may suggest radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Early treatment stops the spread and deeper invasion.

If skin cancer is found early, the outlook is very good. Most non-melanoma skin cancers are easy to treat. Advanced melanoma requires rigorous treatment; however, early detection and proactive sun protection markedly improve long-term outcomes.