Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia. Because early detection vastly improves outcomes, routine skin examinations are more than just precaution – they are a critical health measure.
In this article we’ll explore:
- The types of skin cancer and how they behave
- Signs and changes to watch for in moles and lesions
- Ideal timing: how often to get checked
- What happens during a professional skin check
- What to do if you find something suspicious
- How Pro Health Care’s Skin Check Clinic in Adelaide supports you
Types of Skin Cancer & Risk Factors
There are three major types of skin cancer:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): the most common, usually slow growing
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): can be more aggressive if untreated
- Melanoma: less common but more dangerous because it can spread
These cancers often arise from cumulative UV damage to skin cells.
Key risk factors include:
- Fair or freckled skin, light hair, and light-coloured eyes
- High sun exposure (occupational or recreational)
- History of sunburns or use of tanning beds
- A large number of moles or irregular moles
- Family or personal history of skin cancer
- Old age and cumulative sun damage
If you have one or more of these factors, regular checks are especially important.
What Changes Should You Watch For? The “ABCDE + E” Rule
Early detection depends on noticing changes in your moles or spots. Many practitioners use a variation of the ABCDE rule:
- Asymmetry – one half doesn’t match the other
- Border – irregular, ragged or blurred edges
- Colour – uneven shades, multiple colours
- Diameter – larger than 6 mm or growing
- Evolution / Elevated – change over time or raised surface
Also watch for:
- New spots or lesions
- Spots that itch, bleed, crust or don’t heal
- Spots darker than your normal skin tone
- “Ugly duckling” – a mole that looks or feels different from your others
If you notice any of these signs, it’s wise to seek a professional evaluation.
How Often Should You Get a Skin Check?
There’s no one-size-fits-all interval, but some general guideposts:
- Low-risk individuals: every 1-2 years
- Higher-risk individuals (many moles, family history, prior skin cancer): every 6-12 months
- Immediately if you notice any suspicious change, regardless of when your last check was
The frequency should be based on your personal risk. Your GP or skin cancer doctor can help you decide what’s appropriate.
What Happens in a Professional Skin Check?
When you visit a reputable skin check clinic such as our Skin Check Clinic you can typically expect:
- History & review – discussing your sun exposure, personal/family history, and changes you’ve noticed
- Full visual & dermoscopic examination – scanning your whole skin surface, including hard-to-see areas
- Photography / mapping – documenting lesions or moles for future comparison
- Dermoscopy / imaging – using specialist tools to examine lesion structure
- Decision point – monitoring lesions or recommending biopsy or removal if warranted
- Follow-up plan – timing your next review, updating your map, and tracking changes
A clinic that offers integrated pathways (screening + biopsy + follow-up) reduces patient burden and speeds up care.
What To Do If You Notice Something Suspicious
- Don’t panic – many changes are benign, but vigilance is key
- Avoid picking or irritating the lesion
- Take a photo for comparison
- Book a professional skin check as soon as possible
- Bring any prior skin check reports or photos
The faster a potential skin cancer is assessed, the greater your treatment options.
How Pro Health Care’s Skin Check Clinic Supports You
At Pro Health Care in Adelaide, our Skin Check Clinic is structured to give you confidence in both detection and care.
Here’s how we support you:
- Experienced clinical team using dermoscopy, mole mapping and advanced imaging
- Seamless transition from screening to biopsy or excision within our network
- Coordinated care with our GP services, pathology, and follow-up clinics
- Emphasis on patient comfort, education, and explaining findings clearly
- Risk-adapted follow-up plans so you’re neither under-screened nor over-screened
When skin health matters, you deserve a clinic that offers more than checking – one that cares from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Routine skin checks are not about fear – they’re about empowering your health and catching changes early. If you’re overdue, have observed any changes or have risk factors, don’t delay.
Book your skin cancer screening now through our Skin Check Clinic. Our Adelaide team is ready to guide you from screening to diagnosis – protecting your skin, and your peace of mind.
Disclaimer: This blog is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have concerns about your skin.