Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Roughly two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70, and melanoma alone accounts for thousands of new cases each year. The good news is that when skin cancer is found early, treatment outcomes improve significantly.
So what can skin cancer look like, and how do you tell the difference between a harmless spot and something that needs medical attention? In this guide, our doctor-led team at Advantage Skin Clinic explains the visual signs of all three major types of skin cancer, walks you through the ABCDE rule for melanoma detection, and covers what early-stage skin cancer looks like on different parts of the body.
Whether you have noticed a new bump, a mole that has changed shape, or a patch of skin that will not heal, understanding what to look for is the first step on your journey to healthy skin.
Types of Skin Cancer and What They Look Like
There are three main types of skin cancer, and each one presents differently on the skin. Recognising these differences can help you identify a suspicious spot sooner and seek a professional skin check.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer and typically grows slowly. It develops in the basal cells of the outermost layer of skin and most often appears on areas that receive regular sun exposure, such as the face, ears, neck and scalp.
BCC may look like:
- A pearly or waxy bump, often with visible blood vessels on the surface
- A flat, flesh-coloured or light brown scar-like patch
- A sore that bleeds, crusts over and then reopens without fully healing
- A pink or red raised area that may be shiny or slightly translucent
Because BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it is sometimes overlooked. However, left untreated, it can grow deeper into surrounding tissue and become more difficult to manage. Early detection through regular skin cancer checks is the most effective approach.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It develops from the squamous cells in the upper layer of the skin and tends to grow more quickly than BCC. SCC can appear on any part of the body but is most frequently found on sun-exposed areas, including the face, ears, hands, forearms and lower legs.
SCC may look like:
- A firm, red nodule or bump on the skin
- A thickened, rough or scaly patch that may bleed or crust
- A flat, reddish area with an irregular or raised edge
- A sore that repeatedly heals and reopens
Unlike BCC, squamous cell carcinoma has the potential to spread to lymph nodes and other organs if left untreated. If you notice a persistent scaly patch, a non-healing sore, or a firm skin cancer bump that is growing, a professional assessment is recommended.
Melanoma: The Most Serious Skin Cancer
Melanoma develops from melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. Although it accounts for a smaller percentage of skin cancer diagnoses, melanoma is the most dangerous type because it can spread rapidly to other parts of the body if not caught early.
Melanoma may look like:
- A new mole or spot that appears different from other moles on your body
- An existing mole that changes in size, shape, colour or texture
- A spot with multiple colours, including brown, black, red, blue or white
- A lesion with an uneven or irregular border
- A flat or slightly raised spot that may become raised over time
What does melanoma look like when it first starts?
In its earliest stages, melanoma can be subtle. It may begin as a small, dark spot no larger than a few millimetres, or it may appear as a change in an existing mole. Some melanomas lack pigment entirely (amelanotic melanoma), making them harder to detect without professional examination.
Concerned about a spot or mole? Book a skin cancer check with our doctor-led team.
The ABCDE Rule for Melanoma Detection
The ABCDE rule is a widely used framework to help identify the warning signs of melanoma. If a mole or spot shows one or more of these features, it is worth having it assessed by a doctor.
A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other. If you were to draw a line through the centre, the two sides would look different.
B – Border: The edges of the mole are uneven, scalloped, blurred or notched rather than smooth and well-defined.
C – Colour: The mole contains multiple shades or uneven colour distribution. Look for combinations of brown, black, tan, red, blue or white within the same spot.
D – Diameter: The spot is larger than 6mm across (roughly the size of a pencil eraser). However, melanomas can sometimes be smaller, so size alone should not be the only consideration.
E – Evolving: The mole is changing over time. Any shift in size, shape, colour, elevation or symptoms such as itching, bleeding or crusting warrants attention.
Beyond the ABCDE rule, many dermatologists suggest the use of the “ugly duckling” sign: a mole or spot that looks distinctly different from all others on your body. If one spot stands out from the rest, have it assessed professionally.
What Does Early Stage Skin Cancer Look Like?
Identifying skin cancer in its earliest stages gives you the best opportunity for effective treatment. Here is what to watch for with each type.
Early Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Early BCC often appears as a small, pearly bump or a flat, pinkish patch on the skin. It may look like a minor blemish or a patch of dry skin. On sun-damaged skin, early BCC can be easy to dismiss, which is why routine professional skin checks are valuable. A key indicator is a spot that bleeds with minor contact, crusts over, and then bleeds again.
Early Signs of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Early SCC frequently starts as a rough, scaly patch known as an actinic keratosis (solar keratosis). Not all actinic keratoses develop into SCC, but they are considered precancerous. If a scaly patch becomes thicker, more raised, or begins to bleed or form a persistent sore, it should be assessed promptly.
Early Signs of Melanoma
Early stage melanoma typically presents as a new spot or a change to an existing mole. It may start as a small, flat area with irregular colour or a slightly asymmetric shape. Because early melanoma can look similar to a normal mole or freckle, the ABCDE rule and regular monitoring are essential tools for detection.
Advanced imaging technology can assist with early detection. At Advantage Skin Clinic, our team uses DermEngine total body photography to track moles and skin changes over time, helping to identify subtle shifts that may not be visible to the naked eye.
Skin Cancer by Body Location
Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body, not just on areas exposed to the sun. Here is what to look for in common locations.
Face and Nose
The face is one of the most common sites for skin cancer because of its near-constant sun exposure. BCC frequently appears on the nose as a small, pearly or translucent bump. SCC on the face may present as a persistent red, scaly patch or a non-healing sore. Melanoma on the face can appear as an irregularly shaped dark spot, sometimes mistaken for an age spot or freckle.
Scalp and Ears
The scalp and ears are often overlooked during self-examinations, yet they are highly exposed to UV radiation. Skin cancer on the scalp may appear as a sore, a crusty patch, or a spot that bleeds. On the ears, BCC and SCC commonly present along the outer rim or on the top surface. These areas benefit from professional examination, as they are difficult to check yourself.
Arms, Hands and Legs
Melanoma is commonly found on the arms and legs, particularly in individuals with a history of sunburn. On the legs (especially the lower legs in women), melanoma may appear as a new dark spot. SCC on the forearms and hands often develops from existing sun damage. Check for rough patches, non-healing sores, or raised bumps in these areas.
Chest, Back and Torso
The back and chest are common locations for melanoma, particularly in men. Because these areas are difficult to see on your own, regular checks by a partner, family member, or a professional clinician are recommended. Look for new spots, moles that have changed, or any unusual growths.
Feet and Under the Nails
Acral melanoma can develop on the palms, soles of the feet, and under the fingernails or toenails. This type of melanoma affects people of all skin types and is not related to UV exposure. Under the nails, it may appear as a dark streak. On the soles or palms, it may look like a bruise that does not heal. These locations are frequently missed during self-checks, so include them in your routine.
Regular professional skin checks help detect skin cancer in areas you may miss. Book a consultation today.
What Do Skin Cancer Bumps Feel Like?
Things to Remember:
- Firm or hard to the touch, with a different texture to surrounding skin
- Smooth and dome-shaped (common with BCC)
- Rough and scaly on the surface (common with SCC)
- Tender, itchy, painful, or bleeding, though many skin cancers cause no sensation at all
A bump that persists for more than a few weeks, continues to grow, or does not respond to standard skin care deserves professional attention. Not all skin cancer bumps look alarming at first. Some may resemble a pimple, an insect bite, or a small cyst, which is why changes that do not resolve should always be checked.
Non-Cancerous vs Cancer vs Common Skin Conditions
It can be difficult to tell the difference between skin cancer and other skin conditions. Here are some common look-alikes and how they compare.
Seborrhoeic keratosis: These are benign, waxy, raised growths that can look similar to skin cancer. They often appear brown or black and have a “stuck-on” appearance. A professional can usually distinguish these from melanoma through a dermoscopic examination.
A mole that changes in size, colour, or shape, or one that looks different from all your other moles, should be assessed. Regular mole mapping with technology like DermEngine can track changes over time.
Actinic keratosis (solar keratosis): These rough, scaly patches are caused by years of sun exposure and are considered precancerous. While not all become cancerous, a percentage can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
Warts and cysts: Warts are caused by a virus and have a distinct rough texture. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs beneath the skin. If a growth persists, changes, or you are unsure, have it checked by a professional.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer in Australia
Understanding your risk profile can help you decide how frequently to schedule skin checks. You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have fair skin, light hair, or light-coloured eyes
- Have a history of sunburn to the point of peeling or blistering, particularly during childhood or adolescence
- Spend significant time outdoors or have worked in outdoor occupations
- Have a large number of moles (more than 50)
- Have a personal or family history of skin cancer or melanoma
- Have a weakened immune system
- Are over the age of 50, though skin cancer can affect younger adults, too
Australia’s high UV index means that sun damage accumulates over a lifetime. Even if you have not experienced severe sunburn recently, years of incidental exposure can increase your risk. This is why regular skin cancer checks are recommended for all Australians, particularly those with one or more of the risk factors listed above.
How to Check Your Skin at Home
Regular self-examination is an important complement to professional skin checks. Aim to check your skin once every 3 months, ideally in a well-lit room with a full-length mirror.
Follow these steps:
- Start at the top of your head. Part your hair and examine your scalp section by section.
- Check your face, including the nose, ears, lips, and around the eyes.
- Examine the front and back of your arms, including the underarms and hands.
- Use a hand mirror to check the back of your neck, shoulders, and upper back.
- Inspect your chest, torso, and both sides of your body.
- Check your legs from hip to toe, including the shins, calves, and ankles.
- Examine the soles of your feet, between your toes, and under your toenails.
- Make sure to check backs of arms and backs of legs
Note any new spots, changes to existing moles, or anything that looks different from your last check. Taking photos can help you track changes over time. If anything concerns you, schedule a professional skin check rather than waiting for your next routine appointment.
Want a thorough assessment? Our team offers comprehensive skin cancer checks using advanced dermoscopy and DermEngine body mapping.
When to See a Doctor About a Spot
You should book a professional skin check if you notice:
- A new mole or spot that appeared
- A mole or spot that has changed in size, shape, colour, or texture
- A sore that will not heal or repeatedly crusts and bleeds
- A bump that is firm, growing, or looks different from the surrounding skin
- Any spot that fits one or more of the ABCDE criteria
- A dark streak under a fingernail or toenail without a known cause
It is always better to have a spot checked and find out it is harmless than to delay and risk missing a skin cancer in its early stages. At Advantage Skin Clinic, our doctors are experienced in skin cancer detection and management. We use dermoscopy to examine spots in detail, and our DermEngine system allows us to photograph and monitor your skin over time.
What Happens During a Professional Skin Check?
During a skin cancer check at Advantage Skin Clinic, one of our experienced GPs will perform a thorough examination of your entire body. Using a dermatoscope (a specialised magnifying device), the doctor examines spots at a level of detail that is not possible with the naked eye. For patients who require ongoing monitoring, we use DermEngine to capture high-resolution images and track changes between appointments.
If a suspicious lesion is found, your doctor will discuss the next steps, which may include a biopsy, in-clinic lesion removal or referral to a specialist Dermatologist. Our team manages the full process within the clinic wherever possible, ensuring continuity of care from detection through to treatment.
How to Reduce Your Skin Cancer Risk
While not all skin cancers can be prevented, reducing UV exposure and scheduling regular checks are the two most effective strategies.
- Apply SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours when outdoors
- Wear protective clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves where practical
- Seek shade during peak UV hours, typically between 10am and 2pm in Australia
- Avoid tanning beds and deliberate sun exposure for tanning purposes
- Schedule regular professional skin checks: annually for most adults, and every three to six months if you are at higher risk
- Perform three monthly self-examinations and note any changes
Early detection remains the single most important factor in skin cancer outcomes. By combining sun-smart habits with regular professional monitoring, you give yourself the best chance of catching any changes early.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does skin cancer look like when it first starts?
Early skin cancer can be subtle. Basal cell carcinoma may appear as a small, pearly bump or a pinkish patch. Squamous cell carcinoma often starts as a rough, scaly area. Early melanoma may look like a small, irregularly coloured spot or a mole that has begun to change. Because early signs can resemble common skin blemishes, regular professional skin checks are recommended for reliable detection.
How do you know if a bump is skin cancer?
Not all bumps are skin cancer, but certain characteristics warrant attention. A bump that is firm, growing over time, bleeding without clear cause, or not healing after several weeks should be assessed by a doctor. Skin cancer bumps may feel hard, smooth, or rough, and can be skin-coloured, red, pearly, or dark. If in doubt, book a skin check.
What does melanoma look like compared to a normal mole?
Normal moles are typically round or oval, uniform in colour, and smaller than 6mm. Melanoma tends to be asymmetric, have irregular borders, contain multiple colours, and change over time. The ABCDE rule is a useful framework for comparison. If a mole looks noticeably different from others on your body (the “ugly duckling” sign), it should be checked.
Is melanoma raised or flat?
Melanoma can be either. In its early stages, melanoma is often flat or only slightly elevated. As it progresses, it may become raised. Nodular melanoma, a faster-growing subtype, typically appears as a raised, firm bump from the start. Both flat and raised melanomas require prompt assessment.
Does skin cancer itch or hurt?
Some skin cancers can cause itching, tenderness, or pain, but many cause no sensation at all. The absence of discomfort does not mean a spot is harmless. If a spot is itchy, painful, or bleeding, have it checked. Equally, if a spot looks suspicious but feels fine, it still warrants professional assessment.
How quickly does melanoma grow?
Growth rate varies by type. Superficial spreading melanoma, the most common subtype, may change gradually over months or years. Nodular melanoma can grow more rapidly, sometimes within weeks. This is why any mole or spot that is noticeably changing should be assessed promptly rather than monitored at home.
Can you have melanoma and not know it?
Yes. Melanoma can develop in areas that are difficult to see, such as the scalp, back, soles of the feet, or under the nails. Some melanomas lack typical pigmentation (amelanotic melanoma) and may look pink, red, or skin-coloured. This is one of the key reasons regular full-body skin checks with a qualified professional are recommended.
What does skin cancer on the face or nose look like?
On the face and nose, basal cell carcinoma commonly appears as a small, pearly or translucent bump that may have tiny blood vessels visible on its surface. SCC may present as a scaly red patch or a non-healing sore. Melanoma on the face can look like an irregularly shaped dark spot. Because the face is always exposed to UV, it is one of the most common sites for skin cancer.
What are the ABCDE warning signs of melanoma?
The ABCDE rule stands for Asymmetry (uneven shape), Border (irregular or blurred edges), Colour (multiple shades or uneven colour), Diameter (larger than 6mm, though smaller melanomas exist), and Evolving (any change in size, shape, colour, or symptoms over time). If a mole or spot meets one or more of these criteria, have it examined by a doctor.
When should you see a doctor about a suspicious mole or spot?
See a doctor if a spot is new and unusual, has changed in appearance, matches any of the ABCDE criteria, bleeds or crusts without healing, or simply looks different from your other moles. It is recommended that most Australian adults have an annual professional skin check, with more frequent checks for those at higher risk.
How often should I get a skin cancer check?
Most Australian adults should have a professional skin check at least once a year. If you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, a large number of moles, fair skin, or a history of significant sun exposure, checks every three to six months may be more appropriate. Your doctor can recommend a schedule based on your individual risk profile.
Take the Next Step for Your Skin Health
Knowing what skin cancer looks like is an important first step, but professional assessment provides the certainty that a self-check cannot. Our doctor-led team at Advantage Skin Clinic in Wollongong combines medical expertise with advanced diagnostic technology to detect skin cancer at its earliest stages.
Whether you are due for a routine skin check or have noticed a spot that concerns you, we are here to help. Our experienced GPs use dermoscopy and DermEngine total body photography to examine, document, and monitor your skin with precision.
Book a skin cancer check at Advantage Skin Clinic today.
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