You might be already aware that when skin cells grow abnormally, it leads to skin cancer. This cancer can be of different types based on which cells are affected. While basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are quite common and not always fatal, melanoma can be aggressive and even life-threatening. Although sun-exposed areas of the body are more prone to skin cancer, other parts can show symptoms as well. Hence, watching out for the early warning signs of skin cancer is important.

In case of basal cell carcinoma, the signs to watch out for are

• A brown or flesh-colored lesion that resembles a scar and is flat
• A bump that is waxy or pearly in appearance
• A sore that bleeds or scabs and keeps returning after healing
• An itchy skin patch that is raised and reddish in color
• Abnormal pink growths with a low-lying centre and raised edges.
• Blood vessels radiating from this growth like wheel spokes

These symptoms are mostly noticed on the face or neck.

In case of squamous cell carcinoma, beware of these symptoms:

• A red and firm nodule
• A lesion that is flat and has a crusted, scaly surface
• A scaly or rough patch of skin that is red and may bleed or crust
• A raised lump with a low-lying center
• A wart-like growth
• An open sore that either doesn’t heal or keeps coming back after healing

The face, hands, and ears are more prone to the early warning signs of skin cancer of this type. People with dark complexion tend to develop this cancer in areas that are not exposed to the sun.

In case of melanoma, the early warning signs to look out for are

• A brown and large spot with speckles in a darker shade
• Small lesion with portions that seem white, red, pink or blue
• A bleeding mole or one that changes in color, size, and texture
• A lesion that hurts and is accompanied by itchy or burning sensation
• Dark lesions on toes, soles, palms, or fingertips

In men, melanoma symptoms are commonly observed on the trunk or face, while in women, they appear mostly on lower part of the  legs. People with dark complexion might show melanoma signs under toenails or fingernails or on soles and palms.

Early Warning Signs of Rare Skin Cancer Types
Although they don’t usually appear, one must be aware of such symptoms for early diagnosis and treatment.

• Kaposi Sarcoma
  The symptoms here include purple or red patches on mucous membranes or skin. This is mainly observed in those with compromised immune system
• Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma
  The signs are painless and hard nodules that mostly appear on eyelids. This cancer type develops in oil glands and is aggressive.
• Merkel Cell Carcinoma
  This type of skin cancer will cause shiny and firm nodules that commonly appear on the trunk, neck, or head. These can also develop in hair follicles and under the skin

So, watch out for the early warning signs of skin cancer discussed above and get diagnosed at the earliest for the treatment to be effective.