Every year over 18,000 Australians are diagnosed with melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. That's why, as the summer fun fades and we swap beach days for cosy nights, it's the perfect time to check in with your post-holiday skin.
DIY self-checks are a great start, but a professional scan is the best way to make sure that summer glow didn't come with any unwanted extras.
So, if you've been putting off making that appointment because you're unsure of what actually happens, we're here to help. This no-stress guide breaks down the process so you can book your skin check feeling confident, informed and ready to care for the skin you're in.
Who should I see for a skin check?
When it comes to booking a skin check, there’s more than one place you can go. Most people end up choosing between a GP, a dermatologist or a specialist skin cancer clinic.
Your GP is usually the best place to start. Many GPs have extra training in skin health and can do a very thorough examination. If they find a spot that looks a bit suss, they'll refer you to a specialist, like a dermatologist or a surgeon.
A dermatologist is a doctor who's spent years specifically studying skin health, including how to spot and treat skin cancer. You can see one without a referral, but having a referral from your GP can often make things easier and cheaper. If you're stuck on where to start, our Find a Provider tool can help you track down specialists in your area.
Skin cancer clinics are dedicated hubs where the doctors live and breathe skin checks. Cancer Council Australia recommends looking for a clinic where the doctors have formal training in skin cancer, so don't be afraid to ask about their credentials when you call to book.
What’s the difference between a skin check and mole mapping?
You've likely heard both terms, but they aren't the same thing. A standard skin check is a visual examination where a doctor looks at your skin from head to toe. It's quick, effective and great for a general check-up.
Mole mapping involves a specialist taking high-quality digital photos of all the moles on your body to create a baseline. It's like having a 'before' photo for every spot. When you go back later, the specialist can compare the new photos to the old ones to see if anything has changed in size, shape or colour. It's incredibly helpful for spotting those sneaky changes that are easy to miss, especially when they happen subtly over time.
Cancer Council Australia doesn't recommend using smartphone apps to self-diagnose. They might seem convenient, but they aren't a replacement for a pair of expert eyes and a medical-grade lens.
How should I prep for my skin check?
You don't need to do much to prepare, but a little bit of homework goes a long way.
Did you know that most melanomas are first spotted by the person themselves or their partner? That's why it's so important to get familiar with your own skin by doing a self-check at home. Grab a mirror and look for any new spots or old ones that have changed, so you can walk into your appointment and brief your doctor on anything unusual you've noticed.
On the day of the appointment, keep it simple. Wear loose clothes for easy changing and avoid wearing makeup, foundation, fake tan or nail polish. Your doctor needs to examine your face and even your nail beds. If you've got long hair, wear it out so they can easily check your scalp.
How do I know my risk level of skin cancer?
Knowing your risk level is a huge part of being proactive. In Australia, it's a bit of a numbers game - two in three of us will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer in our lifetime. This isn’t cause for immediate alarm, but it’s worthwhile taking stock of the risk factors that can bump you into the high-risk club, such as:
Fair skin that tends to burn rather than tan
Freckled skin or a lot of pre-existing moles
Red hair and light-coloured eyes
A personal or family history of skin cancer.
If you're not sure where you stand, the nib skin self-assessment is a quick and easy tool that helps you understand your risk of skin cancer and provides tailored insights on what to do next. As a general rule of thumb, an annual skin check by a professional is a great idea for all skin types to ensure nothing gets missed.
What actually happens during a skin check appointment?
A professional skin check is a quick and simple procedure that usually takes about 10-15 minutes. The doctor will start with some questions about your history, then you'll need to strip down to your underwear (yes, skin cancer can even form in areas that have never had sun exposure). The doctor will usually start with a visual examination. If there’s an area they need to take a closer look at, they’ll use a dermatoscope (which is essentially a fancy magnifying glass with a bright light) to look deep into your skin's pigments and blood vessels.
What if they find something?
Spotting a change in your skin can feel worrying at first, but picking it up early gives you the chance to find out what’s going on and get the right care. In fact, when thinner, early‑stage melanomas are caught sooner rather than later, the 10‑year survival rate is around 99%, especially in people under 60.
If a spot looks questionable, your doctor might order a biopsy, which involves taking a tiny sample to check for cancer cells. Most skin cancers are very treatable when they’re caught early, which is why regular skin checks are so important. And while checks matter, prevention still plays a big role. Protecting your skin from the sun is one of the best ways to reduce your risk in the first place.
Is my skin check appointment covered by Medicare?
If you're seeing a GP and have a Medicare card, part or all of the fee is usually covered. For dermatologists and private clinics, it's worth asking about out-of-pocket costs when you book. And, depending on your cover, you could use your private health insurance.
What happens once I get the all-clear?
That's the best news! Just remember that a clean bill of health today isn't a one-and-done situation. Stay on top of things by asking your doctor when you should return for your next professional check and keep up regular self-monitoring in the meantime. Don't forget to also slip, slop, slap, seek and slide every time you’re outdoors.
Getting a skin check is a small time investment for a lot of added peace of mind. If you're ready to take the first step to understanding your skin cancer risk factors, give the nib skin self-assessment a go today.
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.
