Skin cancer is a common, yet sneaky form of cancer, as it often starts with subtle changes you might brush off as “nothing.” The good news is that many skin cancers are highly treatable when caught early. Knowing what to watch for can help you take action quickly and protect your long-term health.

At Boyne Dermatology, Dr. Joy Boyne, a board-certified dermatologist with more than 35 years of experience and the practice’s founder, helps patients identify early warning signs of skin cancer with thorough, personalized skin exams in a welcoming setting. In addition to comprehensive screenings, Boyne Dermatology offers advanced treatment options so patients of all ages and backgrounds can feel confident taking proactive steps toward healthier skin.

1. A Spot That’s New or Changing

One of the earliest warning signs is a new mole or spot that appears suddenly, especially after age 30. Just as important is a mole that changes in size, shape, or color over time. If something on your skin looks different from what it did a few weeks or months ago, don’t ignore it.

2. The ABCDEs of Melanoma

Dermatologists often recommend the ABCDE rule to help identify suspicious moles:

• A – Asymmetry: Half doesn’t match the other half
• B – Border: Edges are irregular, jagged, or blurred
• C – Color: More than one color (brown, black, red, white, blue)
• D – Diameter: Bigger than a pencil eraser (about 6 mm)
• E – Evolving: Any change, especially rapid change

If a mole checks even one of these boxes, it’s worth getting evaluated.

3. A Sore That Won’t Heal

A persistent sore, scab, or bleeding spot that doesn’t heal after a few weeks can be a red flag, especially if it crusts over, reopens, or seems to heal and then returns. This is a common early sign of basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma.

4. Itching, Tenderness, or Pain

Skin cancer isn’t always painful, but itching, burning, or tenderness in one spot can signal irritation beneath the surface. Don’t assume it’s a rash, especially if it doesn’t go away.

5. A Patch That Looks Like a Rash

Some skin cancers appear as rough, scaly patches or red, inflamed areas that resemble eczema or psoriasis but don’t respond to standard treatments.

Protect Your Skin Health and Life with Skin Cancer Screening in Jacksonville, FL

If you notice any suspicious new, changing, or persistent spots, call us at 904-281-1988 to schedule a professional skin exam. Early detection could make all the difference.