Understanding Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: What You Need to Know
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month — a time dedicated to educating the public about the most common cancer in the United States: skin cancer. While melanoma often gets the spotlight (and rightly so, due to its potential to spread), it’s important not to overlook non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), which make up the majority of skin cancer cases.
Let’s take a closer look at what non-melanoma skin cancer is, how to spot it, and what you can do to protect your skin.
What Is Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer?
Non-melanoma skin cancer refers to any type of skin cancer that isn’t melanoma. The two most common types are:
These cancers typically develop in areas that get frequent sun exposure, like the face, ears, neck, and hands. They tend to grow slowly and are usually not life-threatening, especially when caught early — but they can cause disfigurement or spread if untreated.
Key Differences: BCC vs. SCC
| Type | Common Appearance | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Basal Cell Carcinoma | Pearly or waxy bump, sometimes with visible blood vessels | Least likely to spread, but can damage surrounding tissue |
| Squamous Cell Carcinoma | Scaly, red patch or a sore that crusts or bleeds | Slightly more aggressive; can metastasize if left untreated |
Who’s at Risk?
Anyone can get skin cancer, but certain factors raise your risk:
- Fair skin, light eyes, and blond or red hair
- History of sunburns or excessive sun exposure
- Tanning bed use
- Age over 50
- Weakened immune system
- Personal or family history of skin cancer
How to Spot Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
Unlike melanoma, which is often identified by the ABCDEs (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving), non-melanoma skin cancers may not follow these rules.
Look out for:
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- A new bump, growth, or scaly patch
- A spot that bleeds or itches
- Changes in an existing spot or mole
If you notice any of these, get it checked by a dermatologist. Early detection makes all the difference.
Treatment Options
Most non-melanoma skin cancers can be treated effectively. Common options include:
- Surgical excision
- Mohs surgery (especially for facial cancers)
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Topical treatments
- Radiation (for specific cases)
Your dermatologist will recommend the best treatment based on the type, size, and location of the cancer.
What Is the Mohs Procedure?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized procedure used to treat certain types of skin cancer, especially on areas where preserving as much healthy tissue as possible is important — like the face, ears, or hands.
Here’s how it works:
- The surgeon removes the visible tumor along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue.
- That tissue is immediately examined under a microscope.
- If any cancer cells remain at the edges (called “margins”), another thin layer is removed and examined.
- This process is repeated until no cancer cells are seen.
Why it’s beneficial:
- It has the highest cure rate of all skin cancer treatments — up to 99%.
- It removes as little healthy tissue as possible, which leads to better cosmetic outcomes.
- It’s often done in one visit with real-time lab results.
Mohs surgery is most commonly used for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, particularly when the cancer is:
- In a cosmetically sensitive area
- Large or aggressive
- Recurrent (has come back after previous treatment)
Prevention Tips
The good news? Most skin cancers are preventable. Here’s how to lower your risk:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ every day, even on cloudy days.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
- Seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM.
- Avoid tanning beds.
- Get regular skin checks — both self-exams and annual visits with your dermatologist.
Final Thoughts
This May, take a moment to protect the skin you’re in. Non-melanoma skin cancers are common, but with awareness, early detection, and prevention, they’re also very manageable.
Don’t wait for a warning sign — schedule your skin exam today and encourage your loved ones to do the same.
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Schedule Your Dermatology Appointment Today with Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut — trusted experts in skincare. Our compassionate team, personalized care, and convenient CT locations make us a leading choice for skin cancer screening and skin cancer treatment.
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