

Basal Cell Cancer
Basal cell cancer makes up the most skin cancer cases diagnosed every year. It usually takes on the appearance of an open wound or shiny bump. The color can vary from pink, red, and pearly, and the spots are frequently found on the face, neck, and arms. People with fair skin and significant exposure to ultraviolet rays face a higher likelihood of developing basal cell cancer. Though this kind of skin cancer doesn’t usually spread to other areas of the body, it can begin to infect surrounding bones and tissue if not treated right away.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma tends to grow over the course of a few months and appears in the form of thick, red, scaly patch. They are also known to crust over, bleed, or ulcerate. With the main cause of this cancer again being prolonged exposure to the sun and tanning beds, it typically emerges in spots that see the most light, such as the face, arms, neck, back, chest, and ears. Squamous cell carcinoma can easily spread to other organs and body parts if it’s allowed to go undetected and untreated.
Melanoma
Melanoma is regarded as the most dangerous of all skin cancers, as it is likely to spread unless treated in an early stage. It often looks similar to a mole, but is different in that it generally has these characteristics: an asymmetrical shape, irregular borders, various shades of color, and large diameters. Severe sunburns, fair skin, family history, and many moles are thought to put people at the biggest risk for melanoma.
Knowing the high percentage of people that are identified to have skin cancer, it’s critical that you receive regular medical exams and take preventive measures to avoid developing any one of these types of skin cancer. Dr. Thomas Wright at St. Louis Laser Liposuction Center is qualified to help analyze, diagnose, and treat all skin conditions.