Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Know the Signs, Schedule a Screening

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the most common form of cancer in the United States. At Pinnacle Dermatology, we’re passionate about helping our community stay informed, proactive, and protected when it comes to their skin health.

Whether you’re soaking up the Lowcountry sunshine in Beaufort or spending a spring day outdoors in Rincon, it’s important to know the risks and signs of skin cancer—and how early detection can save lives.

The Reality of Skin Cancer

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. The good news? When detected early, most skin cancers are highly treatable.

There are three main types of skin cancer:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) – the most common, often appearing as a pearly bump or flat lesion.

• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) – can show up as a scaly red patch, open sore, or wart-like growth.

• Melanoma – the most dangerous type, but also the most preventable when caught early. Melanomas can develop from existing moles or appear as new dark spots on the skin.

Know the ABCDEs of Melanoma

When examining your skin, use the ABCDE rule to help spot warning signs:

• A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.

• B – Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.

• C – Color: Uneven shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue.

• D – Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser (6mm), but melanomas can be smaller.

• E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms such as itching or bleeding.

Why Annual Skin Checks Matter

Even if you’re diligent with sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds, it’s essential to schedule an annual full-body skin check with a board-certified dermatologist. These screenings can catch suspicious spots early—often before you even notice them.

At Pinnacle Dermatology, we use advanced tools and clinical expertise to monitor changes in your skin and identify issues as early as possible.

How to Protect Your Skin This Spring & Summer

• Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily—reapplying every two hours outdoors.

• Wear protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves.

• Avoid tanning beds—even one indoor tanning session increases the risk of melanoma.

• Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.

• Perform regular self-skin exams—and note any new or changing spots.

Be Proactive: Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening Today

Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate—it can affect people of all ages and skin types. If you’ve never had a full-body skin check or notice anything unusual on your skin, now is the time to act.

Call to Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening

Don’t wait to take charge of your skin health. Schedule a screening with our expert dermatology team in Rincon, GA or Beaufort, SC. Early detection saves lives—and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Call us at (843) 524-5550 or book online today.