
Types of skin cancer
There are several types of skin cancer, but the three most common ones are:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
The most common type of skin cancer, BCC starts in the basal cells at the bottom of the outer layer of the skin.
It is typically slow-growing and usually occurs in areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, chest, and shoulders.
BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but if left untreated, it can cause damage to surrounding tissues.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
SCC starts in the squamous cells, which make up the middle and outer layers of the skin.
It is the second most common skin cancer and can develop in areas that have been sun-exposed, but also in scars, burns, or other skin damage.
While SCC is more likely to spread than BCC, it is still treatable if caught early.
Melanoma:
-
Melanoma is the least common but most dangerous form of skin cancer. It begins in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color).
-
It often looks like a new mole or changes in an existing mole, with irregular edges, multiple colors, or an asymmetrical shape.
-
Melanoma can spread quickly to other parts of the body and is much more likely to cause serious health issues or be fatal if not treated early.