Checking the skin for signs of cancer is an important part of early detection, particularly for melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. If you're concerned about skin cancer, here are common signs to watch for:

1. ABCDEs of Melanoma

This system helps identify abnormal moles that could be melanoma:
* A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
* B – Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.
* C – Color: Varies from one area to another; shades of brown, black, or sometimes patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
* D – Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) but can be smaller when first detected.
* E – Evolving: The mole or skin lesion looks different from others or changes in size, shape, or color.

2. Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Signs

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
* Pearly or waxy bumps.
* Flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesions.
* Sores that bleed, crust over, and do not heal.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): * Firm, red nodules.
* Flat lesions with a scaly, crusted surface.
* Open sores that don’t heal or heal and return.

3. General Skin Changes to Watch For:

* New growths or sores that don’t heal.
* Itchy or painful lesions.
* Changes in texture of skin (rough, scaly patches).
* Bleeding or oozing spots.

4. Look for Unusual Spots:

* Spots that differ from other marks on your skin (called the "ugly duckling sign").

5. Actinic Keratoses:

* Pre-cancerous rough, scaly patches of skin, often found on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, or arms.

If any of these signs are observed, it's important to consult a dermatologist for further evaluation. Regular self-exams and professional skin checks can be critical in catching skin cancer early.