Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers and it can develop quietly, without pain or obvious symptoms. A spot that looks like a harmless scab, a mole that changes slowly, or a new growth that appears out of nowhere can all be early warning signs. The best way to protect your health is with routine skin cancer screening. A professional skin check allows a medical dermatologist to identify suspicious lesions early, when treatment is simpler and outcomes are strongest.
At Manhattan Dermatology, patients receive comprehensive skin cancer screenings from leading board-certified dermatologists, including NYU dermatology professors. With two convenient New York City locations and in-office options for biopsy and skin cancer removal, including Mohs surgery, you can get expert care from screening through treatment and long-term monitoring.
What Is a Skin Cancer Screening?
A skin cancer screening is a full-body skin exam performed by a dermatologist to look for suspicious moles, growths, discoloration, or lesions that may be cancerous or precancerous. The goal is early detection of skin cancer and early treatment of precancerous changes.
During the exam, your dermatologist evaluates:
- Moles and pigmented spots
- Rough, scaly patches (like actinic keratosis)
- New growths or raised lesions
- Non-healing sores or scabs
- Red, irritated, or changing areas of skin
- Nail beds and scalp (when appropriate)
If something looks suspicious, your dermatologist may recommend monitoring, photography, or biopsy to confirm a diagnosis.
What Skin Cancers Can Be Detected?
A skin cancer screening can detect or help identify several conditions, including:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): often appears as a shiny bump, persistent sore, or scar-like patch
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): may look like a rough scaly patch, firm bump, or sore that crusts or bleeds
- Melanoma: often appears as a changing mole or dark irregular spot
- Actinic keratosis (AK): precancerous rough patches that can progress to SCC
Manhattan Dermatology also evaluates atypical moles (dysplastic nevi), which can resemble melanoma and may require monitoring or biopsy.
Who Should Get a Skin Cancer Screening?
Anyone can benefit from a routine skin exam, but screening is especially important if you have risk factors for skin cancer.
You should schedule regular skin cancer screenings if you:
- Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
- Have many moles (especially 50+) or atypical moles
- Have had frequent sunburns or significant sun exposure
- Use or have used tanning beds
- Have fair skin, light eyes, or light hair
- Spend a lot of time outdoors for work or recreation
- Have a weakened immune system
- Notice a mole or spot that is changing, bleeding, itching, or not healing
Many dermatologists recommend annual skin checks for adults, but your provider may suggest more frequent visits if you are higher risk.
Why Choose Manhattan Dermatology for Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer screening is most effective when it’s thorough and performed by experienced specialists. Manhattan Dermatology is a state-of-the-art clinic with a highly skilled team focused on early detection, accurate diagnosis, and comprehensive skin cancer care.
Patients choose Manhattan Dermatology because they offer:
- Board-certified dermatologists with deep expertise in skin cancer detection
- NYU faculty physicians — all providers are dermatology professors
- Head-to-toe skin checks and personalized monitoring plans
- In-office biopsies and removal for suspicious moles and lesions
- Mohs micrographic surgery available for appropriate skin cancers
- Two convenient locations on Park Avenue and East 36th Street in Murray Hill and Midtown East
- Ongoing prevention guidance to protect long-term skin health
Get Peace of Mind With Skin Cancer Screening in New York, NY
Skin cancer screening is one of the simplest ways to take control of your health. To schedule your skin cancer screening in New York, NY, call (212) 683-6073 or (212) 689-9587 today.