Skin safe

What to look for when examining your skin

getting to know your skin and checking once a month for irregularities is crucial to helping your doctor catch skin cancer in the early, most treatable stages. This is equally important if you have naturally dark skin, as a cancer will more likely be found at a later, more dangerous stage than those with lighter skin.

YOUR SELF-EXAM

STEP 1 In a room with good light, undress and stand in front of a full-length mirror.

STEP 2 Inspect your entire front, back and sides, raising your arms to get the best view.

STEP 3 Bend your elbows and look at all parts of your arms, hands (palms, fingernails) and underarms.

STEP 4 Sit in a chair and examine your legs and feet. Don’t forget your soles and between the toes.

STEP 5 Parting your hair in sections, use a hand mirror to examine your scalp and neck.

STEP 6 Use the hand mirror to look at your buttocks and genitals.