How Often Should You Get a Skin Cancer Screening?

One of the most common questions dermatologists hear is how often to get a skin cancer screening. The answer can vary from person to person. Frequency for skin checks depends on your personal risk level, history, and the number of suspicious moles or spots on your skin — though many patients schedule annual skin cancer checks for peace of mind. At Westover Hills Dermatology in San Antonio, TX, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mobolaji Opeola provides full-body skin exams tailored to each patient's needs. By developing an individualized plan, we help you stay ahead of potential issues and can give you peace of mind. 

Why are skin cancer screenings important? 

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, yet it is also one of the most treatable when detected early. A full body skin cancer screening allows our team to carefully examine your skin for unusual growths, changing moles, or other concerning areas. Because patients often overlook subtle changes in their skin and other features, having a professional set of eyes is critical. Screenings are especially valuable because certain skin cancers — like melanoma — can become life-threatening if not treated promptly. Regular checks give patients the best chance possible of catching problems before they progress, when treatment is typically simpler, and outcomes are more successful. 

How often do you need a skin cancer check? 

For people without a personal or family history of skin cancer and with relatively few skin cancer risk factors, occasional screenings may be sufficient. In some cases, this means a full-body skin exam every year or two. However, this recommendation can shift quickly based on lifestyle, medical background, and overall skin health. 

Who needs skin cancer screening more than once a year? 

Some patients should have annual screenings — or, in certain cases, even more frequent visits — because their risks are significantly higher. Some of the reasons to get a skin check for cancer and other issues more frequently than the average person can include having:  

• History of skin cancer 
• Family history of melanoma 
• Multiple or atypical moles 
• Fair skin that burns easily 
• Significant sun or tanning bed exposure 
• Weakened immune system 

By identifying your personal risk factors for skin cancer, Dr. Opeola can recommend the safest and most effective screening schedule possible. 

What happens if a skin cancer check shows a suspicious lesion? 

The goal of screenings is to detect problems at the earliest possible stage. If Dr. Opeola identifies a suspicious lesion or another issue, we will recommend the next steps based on its appearance and location. At Westover Hills Dermatology, our team provides a full range of skin cancer services under one roof. These include cryosurgery for freezing precancerous spots, electrodesiccation for superficial cancers, skin cancer surgery for more advanced cases, topical chemotherapy, and superficial radiation therapy. Based on the findings of each of your annual skin checks — or otherwise based on recommended frequency — we will suggest an appropriate treatment or procedure to reduce your risk levels and help give you the peace of mind you deserve. 

Protect yourself from melanoma and more with regular skin checks in San Antonio, TX 

Your skin tells a unique story, and your skin cancer screening schedule should reflect that. While some patients may only need periodic exams, others require closer follow-up to ensure that concerning spots are addressed right away. At Westover Hills Dermatology, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mobolaji Opeola and our skilled team are committed to protecting your long-term skin health with comprehensive screenings and advanced skin cancer treatments. To learn how often you should be screened, contact us today to schedule your full-body skin exam in San Antonio, TX.