How to perform a skin self-exam
Learn ways to spot changes in your skin and when to contact a dermatologist.
Jan, 2026
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Slide 1
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Early detection of the disease—and other potentially dangerous skin problems—can mean faster, more effective treatment.
The best way to catch skin issues, including skin cancer, is to visit a dermatologist regularly for a full-body, comprehensive skin exam. This is especially important if you have a history of skin cancer.
Between these check-ups, it’s wise to perform skin self-exams at home. Though only a healthcare professional can diagnose skin cancer, self-exams can make you aware of changes in your skin, so you can report them and receive care if needed.
Here’s how to get started.
Written byGeorgiann Caruso.
Medically reviewed byMegan Burke, MD.
Sources: National Cancer Institute. Skin Cancer Screening (PDQ)–Patient Version. March 30 + 10
- National Cancer Institute. Skin Cancer Screening (PDQ)–Patient Version. March 30, 2023.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Skin Cancer. March 25, 2025.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Skin Cancer: Melanoma of the Skin Statistics. July 1, 2024.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Skin Cancer: Screening for Skin Cancer. July 1, 2024.
- Skin Cancer Foundation. Annual Exams. Accessed May 8, 2025.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Find Skin Cancer: How to Perform a Skin Self-Exam. May 15, 2023.
- American Cancer Society. How to Do a Skin Self-Exam. June 26, 2024.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. What to Look for: ABCDEs of Melanoma. Accessed May 8, 2025.
- Skin Cancer Foundation. Self-Exams Save Lives. July 2024.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. How to Take Pictures of Your Skin for Your Dermatologist. July 20, 2023.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Melanoma. March 25, 2025.
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