Your skin is your biggest organ and works hard to protect your body, so you need to return the favor and keep it healthy. A big part of maintaining good skin health involves close monitoring through regular self-exams at home. At Dermatology Consultants of Short Hills, we’re the go-to experts for skin cancer treatment in the northern New Jersey area. We encourage our patients to perform regular skin self-exams to catch potential issues early. But what exactly should you be looking for, and when should you seek professional help? Here are the essential details on skin self-exams.

How a Skin Self-Exam Works

When performing a skin self-exam, check every part of your body-from the top of your head to your toes. The areas that “catch” the most sun, including your face, neck, arms, and legs, are important places to focus on. However, skin cancer can develop even in areas that never see the sun. Check all the following parts of your body, taking your time for a careful inspection.

• Face
• Neck, front, and back
• Ears, front and back
• Scalp
• Chest
• Under the breasts (in women)
• Abdomen
• Back
• Underarms
• Front and back of your arms
• Front and back of your legs
• Top and bottom of your hands and feet
• Between your fingers and toes
• Under your fingernails and toenails
• Your buttocks and genital areas

A handheld mirror alongside a large bathroom mirror can help you check all these areas properly. You’ll need to move around several times during your exam, alternating from sitting to standing, to check all parts of your body completely.

What to Check For During Skin Self-Exams

During your exam, look for anything unusual or changed over time. This includes:

• A new growth, bump, spot, or mole
• A sore that bleeds and doesn’t heal after a few weeks
• A rough or scaly red patch that might crust or bleed
• A mole or other skin growth that changes shape, borders, color, or size

The key is to be familiar with what’s normal for your skin. Regular skin exams allow you to identify potential problems quickly and contact us for quick help when needed. Examining your skin, you’ll be able to spot any changes or new developments that could be concerning.

When to Get Professional Skin Cancer Exams in Short Hills, NJ

If you notice any of the changes mentioned above during your skin self-exam, or simply want peace of mind, it’s important to contact us as soon as possible. Even if a spot doesn’t seem alarming, it’s better to have it checked out early. Skin cancers can vary dramatically and sometimes mimic non-cancerous skin conditions, so a prompt assessment is crucial. Schedule an appointment in our office now. Call 973-232-6245 to book your skin exam and ensure your skin stays healthy and protected.