Understanding Skin Cancer: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Skin

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States—and one of the most preventable. At Redwood Empire Dermatology, we diagnose and treat skin cancer every day across our Santa Rosa, Oakmont, Hoen, and Healdsburg clinics. With early detection and the right care, most skin cancers are highly treatable.

Whether you spend your weekends outdoors, enjoy wine country sunshine, or simply want to stay proactive about your health, here’s what you should know.

 

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably. The three most common types are:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

• The most common form
• Often appears as a pearly bump, pink patch, or non-healing sore
• Usually caused by long-term sun exposure
• Rarely spreads but can grow deep if not treated

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

• Often appears as a scaly patch, red bump, or tender spot
• Can develop from actinic keratoses (“precancers”)
• Can spread if ignored
• Common on sun-damaged areas such as the face, ears, scalp, and hands

3. Melanoma

• The most serious type of skin cancer
• Often presents as a new or changing mole
• Can spread quickly if not caught early
• Early detection is critical for best outcomes

 

Warning Signs: What to Look For

We always tell our patients that early detection starts with knowing your skin. Call your dermatologist if you notice:

The ABCDEs of melanoma:

• A – Asymmetry: one half doesn’t match the other
• B – Border: irregular or blurred edges
• C – Color: multiple colors or very dark color
• D – Diameter: larger than a pencil eraser
• E – Evolving: changing in size, shape, or symptoms (itching/bleeding)

Other red flags include:

• A sore that doesn’t heal
• A new bump or patch
• A spot that bleeds easily
• A rough, crusty, or scaly patch
• A lesion that feels painful or tender

 

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone can develop skin cancer, but risk is higher if you:

• Spend a lot of time outdoors
• Have fair skin, light eyes, or freckles
• Have a history of sunburns
• Use tanning beds
• Have a weakened immune system
• Have a family history of skin cancer
• Are over age 50

That said—skin cancer affects all skin types. If something looks or feels unusual, it’s best to get it checked.

How Skin Cancer Is Treated

At Redwood Empire Dermatology, we offer several effective treatments depending on the type and stage of the cancer:

• Biopsy: the first step in confirming a diagnosis
• Cryotherapy: freezing precancerous lesions
• ED&C (electrodessication & curettage): scraping and cauterizing small cancers
• Excision: removing the cancer surgically
• Mohs Surgery: a precise treatment for high-risk or facial areas, offering the highest cure rate while preserving healthy skin

Our dermatologists—including Dr. Jeffrey Collins, Dr. Julie Plante, Dr. Susan Amaturo, and Dr. Westrom—are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating all forms of skin cancer with a focus on safety, comfort, and cosmetic outcomes.

 

Prevention: Your Best Line of Defense

Good sun habits can significantly reduce your risk:

Protect Your Skin Daily

• Use SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen
• Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating
• Wear hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing
• Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Schedule Annual Skin Checks

A full-body skin exam once a year—more often if you’re high risk—helps catch issues early.

Know Your Skin

Monthly self-checks make it easier to catch new or changing spots.

 

When to See a Dermatologist

If you notice a spot that looks suspicious, changes quickly, or simply doesn’t seem right, don’t wait. Early evaluation is the key to peace of mind and best outcomes.

At Redwood Empire Dermatology, we’re here to support you with expert evaluation, timely biopsies, and personalized treatment plans across our Santa Rosa and Healdsburg communities.

 

Need Your Annual Skin Check?

Call us or schedule online—we’re here to help protect your skin for years to come.