The short answer: Not every skin change that matters looks dramatic. A mole that looks different from your others, a pink patch or "pimple" that will not heal, hives that keep coming back, or a rash you cannot name are all good reasons to see a board-certified dermatologist. Regular self-checks help you notice change early.
Part of my work as a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon is helping people notice what their skin is telling them. Below are three topics I discussed with editors this year, and the signs that mean it is time to book an appointment. This article is for education. It cannot diagnose a skin condition. Only an exam can do that.
What are the less obvious signs of skin cancer?
Many people know to watch for dark, irregular moles. Fewer know that not all skin cancers are dark or raised. As I told NewBeauty, some can look like a small pink patch, a pimple that does not go away, or even a scar-like area.
One helpful shortcut is the "ugly duckling" sign: a mole that looks noticeably different from the rest of your moles deserves a closer look.
Dr. Collins' tip: You know your skin better than anyone. If a spot is new, changing, bleeding, or simply looks different from everything else, have it checked.
How do you do a skin self-check at home?
- Use a well-lit room, a full-length mirror, and a hand mirror.
- Start at your face and scalp, then work down: neck, chest, arms, hands, and between your fingers.
- Check your back and the backs of your legs with the hand mirror, or ask a partner.
- Finish with the soles of your feet and between your toes.
- Take photos of spots you want to track, so you can compare them over time.
What helps chronic hives?
Chronic spontaneous urticaria means hives that keep returning without one clear trigger. As I explained to Women's Health, it is driven by ongoing internal signals, which is why flares can feel so unpredictable.
During a flare, a few things can help you feel more comfortable:
- Cool compresses, which help constrict blood vessels and reduce itch.
- A fragrance-free, barrier-supporting moisturizer. Keeping it in the refrigerator adds extra relief.
- A non-sedating antihistamine, after you check with your doctor or pharmacist about what suits you.
If hives last more than a few weeks, keep coming back, or come with swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, get medical care. Swelling in the throat or trouble breathing is an emergency.
How can you tell psoriasis from eczema?
The two are often confused, but they tend to show up in different places. As I told NewBeauty, psoriasis favors the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Eczema tends to appear on the face, neck, hands, and the inner creases of the elbows and knees.
Skin tone also changes how both look. On lighter skin, both may appear pink or red. On deeper skin tones, inflammation can look purple, violet, gray, or dark brown, or be subtle enough to be missed. That is one reason a professional exam matters for an accurate diagnosis.
When should you see a dermatologist?
- A spot that is new, changing, bleeding, itching, or not healing.
- A mole that looks different from your others.
- Hives that last longer than a few weeks or keep returning.
- A rash that does not improve with gentle care.
- Any time you are unsure. A quick exam brings peace of mind.
As featured in
- NewBeauty: The Uncommon Signs of Skin Cancer Doctors Want You to Know
- Women's Health: 4 Skin Soothers When You Have Chronic Hives
- NewBeauty: Psoriasis vs. Eczema: How to Tell the Difference
Frequently asked questions
How often should I check my skin?
Once a month is a good habit. Ask your dermatologist how often you need a professional skin exam, based on your personal and family history.
Are chronic hives an allergy?
Often not. Chronic spontaneous hives usually have no single external trigger. A dermatologist or allergist can help sort out the cause and the right treatment.
Can you have both eczema and psoriasis?
It is possible. A dermatologist can examine your skin and recommend treatment for what is actually going on.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology: How to Check Your Skin for Skin Cancer
- Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology: the "ugly duckling" sign
- American Academy of Dermatology: Urticaria (Hives) Guidelines
- American Academy of Dermatology: Eczema vs. Psoriasis
- Skin Cancer Foundation: Skin Cancer Facts and Statistics
Dr. Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, is a Harvard-trained, double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon, and the founder of foy. This article is for education and is not a substitute for an exam or advice from your own doctor.