a Skin Self-Examamination

cancer Laser Therapy


Laser therapy uses a narrow beam of light to remove or destroy cancer cells. This approach is sometimes used for cancers that involve only the outer layer of skin.


How to Do a Skin Self-Examamination

You can improve your chances of finding skin cancer promptly by regularly performing a simple skin self-exam. The best time to do this self-exam is after a shower or bath. You should check your skin in a well-lighted room using a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror. It's best to begin by learning where your birthmarks, moles and blemishes are and what they usually look like. Check for anything new--a change in the size, texture or color of a mole, or a sore that does not heal.


Check all areas, including the back, the scalp, between the buttocks and the genital area.



1. Look at the front and back of your body in the mirror, then raise your arms and look at the left and right sides.



2. Bend your elbows and look carefully at your palms; forearms, including the undersides; and the upper arms.



3. Examine the back and front of your legs. Also look between your buttocks and around your genital area.



4. Sit and closely examine your feet, including the soles and the spaces between the toes.



5. Look at your face, neck and scalp. You may want to use a comb or a blow dryer to move hair so you can see well.




By checking your skin regularly, you will become familiar with what is normal. If you find anything unusual, see your health-care provider right away. Remember, the earlier skin cancer is found, the better the chance it can be cured.