Prioritize Your Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., and early detection makes a huge difference. Our board-certified dermatologists specialize in skin cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment — available nationwide via teledermatology or at our California clinic locations.
Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer develops when skin cells begin to grow uncontrollably, most often due to ultraviolet (UV) light exposure from the sun or indoor tanning. The most common types include:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) — the most frequent form, often appearing as a flesh-colored bump or pink patch in sun-exposed areas.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) — often a red firm bump or scaly patch on sun-exposed skin, which can also spread if untreated.
- Melanoma — the most serious skin cancer form; starts in pigment-producing cells and can spread throughout the body.
While anyone can develop skin cancer, risks increase with a history of sunburns, tanning, fair skin, many moles, or a family history of skin cancer.
Skin Cancer Could Look Like:
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Actinic keratoses
Melanoma
Self-Care and Skin Cancer Prevention Tips
Sunscreen and sun protection
Avoid indoor tanning
Perform self-exams
Annual skin cancer screenings
Comprehensive Skin Cancer Care from Diagnosis to Treatment
At DirectDerm, our dermatologists offer personalized treatment plans for all skin cancer types. Depending on type and stage, treatments may include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, topical therapies, radiation or systemic therapies. Early detection means better outcomes and less invasive treatments.
Convenient Skin Cancer Screening and Care
You don’t have to wait to get checked. Schedule a teledermatology visit from home for an initial skin evaluation, or visit one of our California clinics for an in-person skin cancer screening. Early action is key.
Teledermatology with Referrals to Local Dermatologists
Secure online visits from anywhere
Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Cancer
What are the signs of skin cancer?
Look for new growths, a sore that doesn’t heal, changes in a mole’s size/shape/color, or patches that bleed or itch.
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get skin cancer, but highest risk includes individuals with fair skin, many moles, a history of sunburns or indoor tanning, or immunosuppression.
How important is early detection?
Very. Most skin cancers are highly treatable if caught early. Melanoma in particular has much better outcomes when detected before it spreads.
Can I receive a skin cancer screening through teledermatology?
Teledermatology is ideal if you’ve noticed a specific spot or growth you’d like evaluated. Our board-certified dermatologists can review photos, provide guidance, and recommend next steps. However, a full-body skin exam or screening requires an in-person visit at one of our Northern or Central California dermatology clinics. If an in-person visit is needed after a virtual visit and you are not near one of our clinics, we can refer you to a trusted dermatologist near you.
Are there dermatology clinics with skin cancer screenings in California?
Absolutely. DirectDerm serves patients in Northern and Central California with both online visits and in-person screenings.