Freckle inspection

As you get older, you may notice small brown spots starting to appear on your face, hands, arms or elsewhere. Are these a natural part of aging caused by sun exposure over the years, or could they be something more serious?

Is it melanoma?

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the risk of melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer – increases as people age, but it’s not uncommon to find it in adults younger than 30. In fact, in recent years, it’s become one of the most common cancers in young adults, especially women.

Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. In 2026, an estimated 112,000 cases of invasive melanoma of the skin will be diagnosed nationwide, according to ACS.

There are also an estimated 122,680 new cases of melanoma in situ in 2026. Melanoma in situ is limited to the most superficial skin layer, called the epidermis, and can't spread to other parts of the body.

Warning signs of skin cancer

Often, it’s challenging to distinguish an innocuous sunspot from a suspicious mole, so the best preventive action to take is to pay attention to changes in skin lesions.

“In general, spots that change, get bigger in size, appear asymmetric, are raised, have an ulcer, or start bleeding or itching should be assessed by a dermatologist,” said Konstantinos Chouliaras, MD, a board-certified surgical oncologist at Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center. “More importantly, seeking medical attention from a skincare specialist is critical to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, and anything in between.”

How to use the ABCDE method

It’s important to note that not all skin cancers look the same. A great way to remember how to spot a suspicious mole(s) is by using the ABCDEs of melanoma.

Don't ignore the risks

Despite the alarming statistics, many people are unaware of (or tend to disregard) the steps they can take to reduce their risk.

“The younger individuals are, the easier it is for them to disregard precaution and feel they’re not vulnerable to these risks,” said Dr. Chouliaras. “Things like using tanning beds, not applying or re-applying sunscreen, foregoing regular skin checks, and not wearing protective clothing are habits that will increase younger people’s risk of developing skin cancer.”

While it accounts for only 1% of skin cancers, melanoma is the deadliest form due to its ability to spread to other parts of the body if not caught and treated early enough. Places where melanoma can hide include the groin, armpit, genitals, mouth, eyes, fingernails, toenails and scalp.

“Skin cancer can appear literally anywhere,” said Dr. Chouliaras. “Even though areas with chronic sun exposure are more at risk, areas that are not typically exposed can also be affected.”

Get your skin checked regularly

It’s important to be systematic and consistent when performing self-exams. Paying close attention to areas that have appeared recently or might be changing is critical and ultimately can save your life.

“Consistent checks over time are likely to be more effective than a single occasional check here and there,” said Dr. Chouliaras. “It’s easier to perform a quick self-check after a shower when someone can spend time in front of the mirror and assess as many areas as possible.”

If you’re concerned about a sunspot, you should have your skin examined by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Sun protection is the ultimate defense

Though skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, it’s also one of the most preventable. There are several ways to protect your skin from the harmful effects of chronic sun exposure.

“Applying sunscreen daily, avoiding sun exposure during peak sunlight hours, wearing protective clothing, getting regular skin checks and staying vigilant about new or changing moles can make a big difference,” said Dr. Chouliaras. “Using sunscreen consistently, even on cloudy days and during the winter months, can make a difference.”

Source: American Cancer Society