Why Get Your Skin Checked?
Spending time in the sun is part of life on the beautiful Gold Coast. But with all that sunshine comes higher exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and therefore a greater need to keep an eye on your skin.
Queenslanders are at greater risk of developing skin cancer. In fact, 2 out of 3 Australians will develop a skin cancer before the age of 70. Early detection is the key to effective treatment.
A skin check is a simple, non-invasive examination of your skin from head to toe, checking for any unusual moles, spots or changes that could be signs of skin cancer. Spots are then further examined with a tool called a dermatoscope which allows your doctor to see particular features of these spots including blood vessels and pigmentation colours underneath the skin.
Think of it like a routine check-up solely for your skin!
In our clinic, Dr Sarah Hunt – an experienced female skin GP – will work together with you to make sure you are well-informed about your skin health during the check and fully understand any treatment options available to you.
What to expect in a skin check with us
Your skin check is a simple but important step in protecting your health, and we are here to make the process as comfortable as possible.
Here is what usually happens:
- You will be welcomed by Dr Hunt and her professional team and asked a few questions about your skin history, any changes you have noticed, or concerns you may have.
- A consent form will be provided prior to the skin check, outlining what will happen during a check. Areas underneath your underwear will not be examined unless you have specific concerns. Your consent is also gained to photograph any lesions of concern and your privacy will be respected at all times.
- You will be asked to undress down to your undergarments and then asked to sit or lie on an examination couch in a private consultation room. You will be given a modesty sheet throughout the check so only areas being checked will be uncovered at any one time.
- Dr Hunt will carefully look at your skin using a small tool called a dermatoscope – a magnifying light that helps her see details of the spots more clearly.
- The examination is quick, gentle and non-invasive, and Dr Hunt will clearly explain her actions so that you are always informed of what is happening.
- With your consent, Dr Hunt may take digital photography of any moles or spots that may be a concern.
- A standard skin check can take 15 to 30 minutes depending on how many spots you need examined and the treatment required.
We understand that you may feel anxious about a skin check, especially if it is your first time. Please know that you are in safe hands and that our goal is to support your health without stress or discomfort.
Who should book in for a skin check?
Early detection is key to managing skin cancer.
Melanoma is the most common cancer in Australians aged 20-39.
Gold Coast residents are particularly at risk of skin cancer due to high levels of UV exposure, and we recommend getting your skin checked regularly by a trained practitioner – usually once every 12 months.
You can book online for a comprehensive skin check and our friendly team will be in touch.
Spot Checks
Please see the scanyourskin.org website for a useful online risk assessment tool.
Scan your skin and look for a spot or a mole that is…
- Sore
A spot which is sore (scaly, itchy, bleeding, tender) and doesn’t heal within 6 weeks. - Changing
Changing in size, shape, colour or texture. - Abnormal
Looks different, feels different, or stands out when compared to your other spots and moles. - New
Has appeared on your skin recently. Any new moles or spots should be checked, especially if you are over 40.
Here is a simple guide to help you check your skin and recognise the early signs of skin cancer:
- The more of the above SCAN features a spot or mole has the more concerning it may be. (e.g. a New mole that is Changing in appearance and that is Abnormal is one that should be checked by a doctor urgently.)
- Most people have made all their moles by the time they are 40. A new mole after this age is more suspicious, and the older you are the more suspicious a new mole is.
- If you do find a spot or mole of concern, see your doctor for either a “spot check”, or a full skin check.
- Become familiar with the spots and moles on your skin. You should check your own, and/or your partner’s, skin regularly.
It’s your doctor’s job to diagnose skin cancer, but you will know better than anyone else if something on your skin is Sore, Changing, Abnormal or New.
SCAN
- Sore
- Changing
- Abnormal
- New