If you’ve ever seen pictures of skin cancer, you know that some basal cell carcinomas and actinic keratoses (pre-cancers) can very closely mimic a pimple. “Skin cancer is our most common cancer—it’s more common than all cancers combined,” says New York dermatologist Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, president of the Skin Cancer Foundation. “But when caught early, it is usually curable, so you should always be on the lookout for it.” And while routine skin checks are critical to make sure your spots are tracked by a trained eye, educating yourself about what to look for at home can also potentially save your life. Here’s what to keep in mind.
Featured Experts
- Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York and president of the Skin Cancer Foundation
- Kavita Mariwalla, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in West Islip, NY
The Key Differences Between Skin Cancer and a Pimple
“When doing a self-exam at home, it’s possible that someone might be unsure if a spot is skin cancer or a blemish,” says Dr. Sarnoff. “Skin cancer and pimples can sometimes be difficult to distinguish if you are not a dermatologist. Nonetheless, there are some key things to consider: Pimples are usually red and inflamed, and they may be tender or even contain pus. Also, pimples—even cystic ones—generally resolve within two weeks’ time.”
West Islip, NY dermatologist Kavita Mariwalla, MD says that sometimes, basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer, can look just like a pimple. “I tell patients generally that they are allowed to have spots that come and go, but if a particular area keeps recurring and does not heal, then it is important to bring that to the attention of your dermatologist.”
Pictures of Skin Cancers and Pre-Cancers That Look Like Pimples
The Areas You May Forget to Check
“Skin cancer can and does appear anywhere,” Dr. Sarnoff says. Dr. Mariwalla adds that “dermatologists usually see skin cancer in areas of sun exposure, but a lot of people do not look at their back fully, nor can they visualize places like the backs of their ears. Interestingly, as fashion styles have changed for women, we have seen a rise in skin cancers on areas like the legs and chest.”
“And don’t forget to check your scalp, where skin cancers can certainly occur,” says Dr. Sarnoff. “It’s difficult to examine your own scalp, but a helpful tip is to ask your hairdresser to look closely when your hair is wet. If they see anything unusual, they can point it out to you, and you can then get it checked with your dermatologist.”
Your lips should be protected, too, and there are so many great SPF lip products these days, without the dreaded sunscreen taste. Two of our favorites are Caliray Lipguard SPF 31 ($19) and BeautyStat Cosmetics C Lip Serum SPF 30 ($15).
How to Avoid a Bad Scar When Removing Skin Cancer on Your Face
According to Dr. Sarnoff, Mohs micrographic surgery offers the highest skin-cancer cure rate: up to 99 percent for untreated skin cancer. When removing a skin cancer from a delicate, highly visible place like your face, head or neck, it’s important to see a qualified Mohs surgeon who will take special care to avoid a bad scar. Not all dermatologists specialize in these procedures.
“Mohs surgery is done in stages all in one visit, while the patient waits between each stage,” she explains. “After removing a layer of visible cancerous tissue, the surgeon examines it under a microscope in an on-site lab. If any cancer cells remain, the surgeon knows exactly where they are and removes another layer of tissue from that precise location, while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. The doctor repeats this process until no cancer cells remain. For those patients who are not candidates for surgery, ultrasound-guided superficial radiation therapy is also an option.”
Dr. Mariwalla adds that anytime the skin is cut, a scar forms. “There is no such thing as scarless skin cancer surgery. However, Mohs surgeons who are board-certified skin cancer experts are also experts in facial reconstruction. For my patients, if I feel a tumor is particularly large, I partner with a facial plastic surgeon to assist in the repair. But anytime one has surgery, it is important not to do any heavy lifting or exercise for two weeks afterward. It is also important not to smoke. Both of these things can really alter a scar. At the end of one month, believe it or not, the skin is only 10 percent of its normal strength, so it is important to baby the area for a few weeks.”
Why Sunscreen Is Vital for Healthy Skin
Tips for Your Next Skin Check
“Skin checks are important as a preventive health measure because even though they are cancers, when detected early, they can be cured,” says Dr. Mariwalla. “When you come in for a skin check, we typically prefer that patients are without heavy makeup or nail polish on.” Skin cancer can occur on the fingernails, lips and eyelids, so these products can alter its appearance. Of course, a good concealer can hide any spot, which defeats the whole purpose of the appointment.
Many dermatologists use a dermatoscope, but Dr. Mariwalla says not all doctors do. “Some people use them to more closely assess a mole to decide if they want to do a biopsy, while others do not,” she adds. “It is a preference, but all dermatologists are trained in using them.” There has been a lot of discourse online about the importance of dermatoscopes for diagnosis, so if you feel strongly about having your doctor use one, be sure to ask at your appointment.
Also, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for sunscreen and UPF clothing recommendations. “Skin cancer is serious and sun protection and early detection save lives,” says Dr. Sarnoff. “The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends routine skin checks and following a complete sun protection strategy that includes seeking shade, daily sunscreen use and covering up with clothing, hats and sunglasses. As president of the organization, I truly implore you to take this advice seriously and protect yourself.”
