By Amy Harris, MS, RN, CNM

Skin Cancer Screening: What to Know About Early Detection and Risk

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with millions of cases diagnosed each year. But when caught early, it’s highly treatable. That’s why skin cancer screening—whether done at home or by a dermatologist—can be a crucial step in safeguarding your health.

In this article, we’ll cover how skin cancer screening works, who should get it, and how you can take charge of your skin health.

What Is Skin Cancer Screening?

Skin cancer screening is the process of examining the skin for suspicious spots, moles, or lesions that could indicate skin cancer. These exams are typically visual and can be performed by a dermatologist or even by yourself at home.

There are several types of skin cancer screenings:

• Visual exams: Involve a full-body inspection by a doctor to identify abnormal lesions or moles.
• Dermoscopy: A technique using a handheld device that magnifies and lights up the skin.
• Skin biopsy: May be ordered if a suspicious lesion is found, involving the removal of a small sample for lab analysis.

Screening aims to detect skin cancer early—when it's easiest to treat.

Why Skin Cancer Screening Matters

When found early, the five-year survival rate for melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer, is 99%. Unfortunately, not all skin cancers show obvious signs at first, which makes regular skin checks a smart preventive health habit.

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common types of skin cancer and are often linked to long-term sun exposure. While these types grow more slowly than melanoma, they can still cause significant damage if left untreated.

Who Should Get Screened?

Anyone can develop skin cancer, but some individuals are at higher risk. According to the National Cancer Institute, you may need more frequent screening if you:

• Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
• Are fair-skinned or burn easily
• Have a high number of moles or atypical moles
• Use tanning beds or have had excessive UV exposure
• Are over age 50

There's no universal age to start screening, but many dermatologists recommend beginning annual exams in your 20s or 30s, especially for those with risk factors.

What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Screening

A full-body skin cancer screening is painless and usually takes less than 15 minutes. During the exam, your provider will:

• Ask about your medical and family history
• Examine your scalp, face, neck, torso, arms, legs, fingers, toes, and soles of your feet
• Use a dermatoscope to look at suspicious moles more closely
• Possibly take a skin biopsy if something looks concerning

It’s helpful to remove nail polish and wear your hair loose for the exam. Don’t wear makeup or sunscreen to your appointment.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of a skin cancer screening can range from $100 to $200 without insurance, depending on your location and provider. Some health insurance plans cover preventive skin checks, especially if you’re considered high risk.

Medicare does not cover routine skin cancer screening unless it's medically necessary (e.g., a suspicious lesion is present). The ICD-10 code commonly associated with these exams is Z12.83, which represents an "encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of skin."

Screening Guidelines and Recommendations

Here’s what leading organizations recommend about skin cancer screening:

• U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF): Concludes there's not enough evidence to recommend routine screening for everyone but suggests individual assessment based on risk factors.
• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): Strongly encourages yearly skin exams by a dermatologist and monthly self-exams.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Emphasizes early detection and regular self-checks, especially for people with a high risk.

How to Do a Skin Self-Exam

Monthly self-checks can help you notice any new or changing spots early. Here’s how to do it:

1. Use a full-length mirror in a well-lit room.
2. Examine your body front and back, then sides with arms raised.
3. Look closely at your arms, underarms, hands, and fingers.
4. Check your legs, including the backs, soles of feet, and between toes.
5. Use a handheld mirror to inspect your back, buttocks, neck, and scalp.

Look for the ABCDE signs of melanoma:

• Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
• Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred
• Color: Multiple colors or uneven shades
• Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser (6mm)
• Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or behavior

If you find anything suspicious, schedule an appointment with your doctor right away.

How to Lower Your Risk for Skin Cancer

While not all skin cancers are preventable, these habits can significantly reduce your risk:

• Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
• Avoid tanning beds and prolonged sun exposure
• Wear hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing
• Stay in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Get annual skin exams by a dermatologist

Sun safety is one of the most effective tools for skin cancer prevention.

FAQs: Common Questions About Skin Cancer Screening

At what age should you start getting skin cancer screenings?

There’s no universal starting age, but dermatologists often recommend beginning annual professional skin checks in your 20s or 30s, particularly if you’re in a high-risk group. Monthly self-exams can start even earlier.

How is a skin cancer screening performed?

A full-body skin cancer screening involves a clinician visually examining your entire skin surface, including your scalp, between your toes, and other less visible areas. They may use a dermatoscope and, if needed, take a biopsy of any suspicious spots.

What does the ICD-10 code for skin cancer screening represent?

The ICD-10 code Z12.83 is used for encounters related to screening for malignant neoplasms of the skin. This coding helps determine whether insurance will cover the screening.

How often should you get screened for skin cancer?

If you’re at higher risk, annual screenings by a dermatologist are generally recommended. For lower-risk individuals, frequency may vary depending on lifestyle and personal history. Monthly self-exams are encouraged for everyone.

What does skin cancer look like?

It can appear as a mole or spot that changes in color, shape, or size. Some types may bleed, itch, or look like a scab that doesn’t heal. Irregular borders, multiple colors, or asymmetrical features are common signs to watch for.

What should I do if I notice a suspicious mole or spot?

Schedule an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible. They may monitor the spot or perform a biopsy to determine if it’s cancerous.

How Everlywell Can Help

At Everlywell, we empower you to take control of your health through accessible at-home lab testing. While skin cancer screenings require a clinical setting, our wellness tests - like inflammation markers, vitamin D levels, or hormonal health - can help you track internal risk factors that may affect your skin health. Pair your clinical screenings with Everlywell's insights to make more informed decisions about your care.