Maybe it’s my 30 years of experience and training within the skincare industry, or maybe it’s simply growing up in a time when we didn’t have the same level of skin protection or awareness around sun damage.
Childhood was spent outdoors climbing trees and soaking up every bit of lovely weather we were gifted. There were also those occasional trips where we’d all be packed into the car for a full day at the beach.
Goodness, I even remember as a teenager putting all sorts of oils on my legs to try and get a tan, believing that sunburn was simply the price you paid for it.
And here I am now, not far off 50 myself, regularly having to gently encourage clients to make an appointment with their doctor to have a suspicious skin concern checked, while trying not to create fear or overwhelm around the “what ifs.”
There’s often a mixture of emotions when a client later messages or calls to say they needed further treatment after visiting their doctor. I feel sad that they have to go through that experience, but also deeply relieved that it was caught in time.
While I never wish to create fear in my clients, I do believe it’s important that we check things early so we have more options, more support, and more response time.
Over the last few years, I’ve also accompanied a family member through hospital visits, dressing changes, and treatments, becoming very aware of both the realities of skin cancer and the wide range of treatment options now available.
I’ve seen first hand the benefits of early detection and how greatly outcomes can improve when concerns are addressed sooner rather than later.
Getting skin concerns checked is not something we should fear, avoid, or keep putting off. Sometimes, it’s simply an act of care toward ourselves.
Our skin is constantly communicating with us.
It reflects not only our internal health, stress levels, and environment, but can also alert us when something deeper may need attention. Taking time to become familiar with your skin and noticing changes early is one of the kindest and most important forms of self-care.
Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide, yet early detection can make a significant difference in outcomes. Becoming more aware of your skin, without fear or panic, allows you to respond early and seek the right support when needed.
Why Regular Skin Checks Matter
Many skin changes are harmless, but some changes should never be ignored.
Regular skin checks help you become familiar with:
● moles
● freckles
● pigmentation
● new growths
● changes in texture or colour
When we know what is normal for our skin, it becomes easier to notice when something changes.
Early detection is especially important with melanoma and other forms of skin cancer, as treatment is often more successful when concerns are identified early.
Signs to Pay Attention To
It’s important to seek medical advice if you notice:
● A new mole or mark appearing suddenly
● A mole changing shape, colour, or size
● Irregular borders or uneven colouring
● tching, bleeding, crusting, or tenderness
● A sore that doesn’t heal
● Persistent dry, scaly, or red patches
● Any lesion that looks noticeably different from others
A useful guide often shared by doctors is the “ABCDE” rule:
● Asymmetry
● Border irregularity
● Colour changes
● Diameter changes
● Evolving over time
If something feels unusual or concerning, trust your instinct and have it checked.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice ongoing changes in your skin, it’s important to book an appointment with your GP or dermatologist.
Professional skin checks can help assess:
● suspicious moles
● pigmentation changes
● sun damage
● non-healing lesions
● inflammatory skin concerns
Your doctor may simply monitor the area, photograph it, or refer you for further investigation if needed.
Seeking advice early does not mean something is seriously wrong, it simply allows the right care and assessment to happen sooner.
Treatments & Support Available Today
Modern skin cancer treatments have advanced greatly in recent years, particularly when concerns are identified early.
Depending on the type and stage, treatments may include:
● monitoring and regular reviews
● minor surgical removal
● cryotherapy (freezing treatment)
● topical medicated creams
● laser or light therapies
● immunotherapy or targeted treatments in more advanced cases
Your healthcare provider will guide you toward the most appropriate support for your individual situation.
● Protecting Your Skin Daily
● Simple daily habits can help protect long-term skin health:
● Wearing SPF daily
● Avoiding excessive sun exposure
● Seeking shade during peak UV hours
● Wearing hats and protective clothing
● Staying hydrated
● Supporting overall wellbeing through rest, nourishment, and stress regulation
Healthy skin is not only about appearance, it is also about protection, awareness, and care.
A Gentle Reminder
Checking your skin regularly is not about fear.
It is about becoming more connected to your body, listening to what it may be communicating, and seeking support when needed.
Your skin deserves care, attention, and kindness, just like the rest of you.
This blog is for educational purposes and is not intended to replace medical advice or diagnosis.
