Self-Checking Your Skin: A Step-by-Step Guide with Dr Emily
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia and New Zealand, but when caught early, it’s also one of the most treatable. Performing regular self-examinations can help detect potential issues early and ensure faster access to treatment.
In this guide, Dr Emily shares a simple step-by-step approach to checking your skin, what signs to look out for, and when to seek professional advice.
Why Skin Self-Exams Matter
Skin cancer can develop anywhere, not just sun-exposed areas. A regular self-check helps you stay familiar with your skin, making it easier to notice new or changing spots. Early detection is key: when melanoma is caught in its earliest stage, the five year survival rate is over 99%.
We recommend combining quarterly self-checks with an annual professional skin exam for the best protection.
Dr Emily Alfonsi
How to Perform a Skin Self-Exam
Do a full body check every 3 months. It takes around 10 - 15 minutes and all you need is:
A full-length mirror and hand mirror
A well-lit space (natural light is ideal)
A comb to part your hair
A smartphone to photograph and track changes
Step 1: Prepare
Stand in a bright room with both mirrors ready.
Undress completely as skin cancer can appear anywhere.
If possible, ask a trusted person to help check hard-to-see areas like your back or scalp.
Step 2: Check Your Face and Scalp
Inspect your face, lips, ears (front and back), and neck.
Use a comb and mirror to part your hair and check your scalp in sections.
Step 3: Examine Your Upper Body
Look over your arms, underarms, elbows, palms, and between your fingers.
Check your chest, stomach, and under breasts if applicable.
Use the hand mirror to inspect your shoulders and upper/lower back.
Step 4: Look Over Your Lower Body
Sit down to check your legs, ankles, tops and soles of your feet, and between your toes.
Use the mirror to check your buttocks and genital area.
Step 5: Track Any Changes
Photograph or write down anything unusual: size, shape, and colour.
Compare notes with your previous checks to track changes over time.
What to Look For: The ABCDEs of Melanoma
Use this guide to assess any suspicious spots:
A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
B – Border: Edges are irregular or blurred
C – Colour: Varies in shade or includes multiple colours
D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (though smaller spots can still be suspicious)
E – Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or symptoms
Also keep an eye out for:
New or unusual spots
Sores that don’t heal within a few weeks
Red, scaly patches or shiny bumps
When to See a Doctor
Book a skin check if you notice:
Any spot that meets the ABCDE criteria
A new or changing mole
A sore that won’t heal within 4 - 6 weeks
Anything that looks or feels unusual
If you have fair skin, lots of moles, a history of sunburns, solarium use, or a personal/family history of skin cancer, then be especially proactive with checks.
Quick Tips for Better Skin Checks
Be consistent: Pick a date (e.g. first of the month) and set a reminder
Take your time: Rushing makes it easy to miss something
Use photos: Helps track changes more accurately
Know your skin: The better you know what’s normal, the easier it is to spot what’s not
Take Control of Your Skin Health
Checking your skin regularly puts you in control. With just a few minutes every few months, you can play an active role in protecting your health. And if you’re ever unsure, don’t wait, book in with your GP or a skin cancer specialist.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for skin concerns.
Written by Dr Emily Alfonsi
MBBS, FRACGP, DRANZCOG
Medical Director, Shade Skin
Dr Emily is a skin cancer doctor with advanced training in diagnosis and treatment. She has personally detected and treated hundreds of skin cancers and is passionate about early intervention and patient education.
