Being sun-smart and doing self-skin checks are great ways to protect yourself from skin cancer. To take your skin protection one step further, it’s worth getting a professional skin check.
There isn’t an official guideline on how often we should get a professional skin cancer check. But it’s something we all should do regularly, especially after we turn 40. People who have a higher risk of skin cancer might need more skin checks and should chat to their doctor about it.
If you’re wondering what happens at a skin check appointment, then you’ve come to the right place. We’re answering all your skin check questions, so you can book your next skin check with confidence.
What’s the difference between a GP, skin specialist and skin clinic?
If you notice changes or want a general skin check-up, there are different specialists you can visit. Your GP is a good starting point as they can do a thorough examination of your skin. If they find anything suspicious, then they might refer you to a specialist, like a dermatologist or surgeon.
You can also go to a dermatologist without a referral. A dermatologist is a doctor who specialises in skin health, including spotting skin cancer. If you want to start searching for a dermatologist in your area, you can use our Find a Provider tool.
Another option is going to a skin cancer clinic for your skin check. The Cancer Council recommends searching for a clinic with doctors who have training in skin cancer.
What’s the difference between a skin check and mole mapping?
A skin check involves a doctor doing a visual examination of your skin. But mole mapping is a little different. Unlike a skin check, mole mapping is when a specialist takes high-quality photos of all the moles on your body. This can help you and a skin specialist keep track of the size, shape and colour of your moles over time. By having a record of what your moles look like, the skin specialist can spot any noticeable changes, including signs of skin cancer.
Cancer Council Australia does not recommend the use of smartphone applications by consumers to self-diagnose skin cancer including melanoma.
How to prepare for a skin check
It’s a good idea to get familiar with your skin by doing a self-check before you go. This can help you point out any spots of concern to your doctor during the examination.
Avoid wearing make-up and nail polish when you go for your skin check, as the doctor needs to see your skin and nails. Got long hair? Then wear it out or loose so they can check your scalp.
Understand your risk of skin cancer before you go
Another way to prepare for your skin check is knowing your risk of skin cancer. You might be more at risk of skin cancer if you have:
Fair skin that tends to burn
Freckles
Light eye colour and red hair
Pre-existing moles
A weakened immune system
A personal or family history of skin cancer.
If you fall into any of these high-risk groups, your doctor may recommend more frequent skin checks. Want to know your level of risk? Then check out the nib skin self-assessment. It’s a quick and easy tool to understand your risk of skin cancer and gives you tailored insights on what to do next.
What does a skin check involve?
Having a skin cancer check is a quick and simple procedure. The doctor performing your skin cancer check will likely start by asking you some questions relating to your risk of skin cancer before beginning the skin examination.
Do I have to get fully undressed?
Yes, after asking you questions about your skin you’ll have to get undressed for the skin check. But keep your underwear on unless your doctor asks you to remove them. Remember, some skin cancers can form on areas that haven’t been exposed to the sun, so your doctor may want to check everywhere.
What clothes should I wear to a skin check?
As you’ll need to take your clothes off for a skin cancer check, you might like to wear something that’s comfortable and easy to get on and off.
How is a skin check performed?
Your GP or dermatologist will do a thorough examination using a dermatoscope. This gives them a better look at any suspicious spots than is possible with the naked eye. They will check your entire body, which can include your scalp, behind your ears, fingers and toes.
What equipment does the doctor use?
The doctor performing your skin cancer check will use a dermatoscope. This is a special magnifying glass with a light attached that helps them see the patterns formed by the pigment in the skin and blood vessels.
What happens if something is found?
If your GP is doing your skin check and finds any suspicious-looking spots or areas of concern, they might refer you to a dermatologist or surgeon. In some cases, your GP might order a biopsy, which they might do themselves. If you’re seeing a dermatologist, they can usually order or do a biopsy straight away. A biopsy involves removing part or all of the spot and sending it away to a lab to check for cancer cells under a microscope.
How long does a skin check take?
A skin check is a quick procedure – around 10-15 minutes.
How much does a skin check cost?
If you have a skin check done by your GP and have a Medicare card, part or all of the fee will be covered. If you’re referred to a dermatologist, you’ll need to speak to them directly about out of pocket costs. But you might be eligible for a Medicare rebate. And, depending on your cover, you could use your private health insurance.
After the skin check
If your doctor doesn’t find anything of concern during your skin check then that’s it, you’re all done! Ask them when you should come back for a skin exam. And don’t forget to check your own skin between appointments.
If the doctor has sent you for a biopsy, you’ll likely need a follow-up appointment to receive the results. If they find any skin cancer, they'll talk to you about the next steps and treatment options.
Remember, most skin cancers can be treated if they’re found early, so be sure to schedule regular skin checks with your GP or specialist.
Get to know your skin today
Ready to get to know your skin so you’re prepared for your appointment? Then try out the nib skin self-assessment today. All you need to do is answer a couple of questions about your skin and family history and voila – results in less than 10 minutes. But remember, if you notice anything different or unusual about your skin, go to your GP or a skin specialist.
Please note: The information throughout this article serves as broad information and should not replace any advice you have been given by your medical practitioner.
