What Is a Skin Exam?
The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that one in five Americans will have skin cancer in their lifetime. The high incidence of skin cancer means regular skin cancer screenings are a must, particularly if you have a family or personal history of skin cancer. Our team at Owen Health Group performs skin exams, closely inspecting your skin from head to toe. Our team checks for early signs of skin cancer and other skin problems. We look for anything new, changing, or unusual, including moles, spots, and growths on your skin. A full-body skin exam is often done once a year. This is called a yearly skin exam or annual skin exam. Some people may need exams more often based on their skin type, history, or sun exposure. A complete skin exam can also help find noncancer issues, such as rashes or infections before they spread or worsen. Schedule a consultation at Owen Health Group in Lubbock or Snyder, TX to keep your skin health on track with a professional skin exam.
What Happens During a Skin Exam?
During your full body skin exam, we will check your skin from head to toe. You'll be asked to change into a gown before we check your scalp, face, chest, arms, legs, back, and even areas like the soles of your feet and between your toes. We check moles and other spots for signs of change. Our team looks for color changes, shape changes, and other warning signs. If anything seems unusual, we may take a closer look with a light or magnifier. Sometimes, a small sample is taken during a biopsy for testing. The sample will be sent to a pathology lab for evaluation.
What Are the Benefits of a Skin Exam?
Skin exams do more than just spot problems. They give you peace of mind. Regular checks help catch issues early when they are easiest to treat. That can make a big difference. Here are some benefits of having a yearly skin exam:
- Find skin cancer early, including melanoma, which can be serious if missed
- Check moles for changes that may signal health risks
- Spot infections or rashes that may be spreading
- Identify sun damage before it causes lasting harm
- Get guidance on how to protect your skin each day
Skin Exams Reviews
Beautiful office. Friendly staff. Dr. Jeff Owen is a great doctor. Thankful for his help in dealing with my husband's skin cancer.
Beautiful office. Friendly staff. Dr. Jeff Owen is a great doctor. Thankful for his help in dealing with my husband's skin cancer.
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5
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can the ABCDs of skin cancer be identified?
The ABCDs of skin cancer refer to Asymmetry, Border, Color, and Diameter. A spot may be considered suspicious if one half looks different from the other, the edges appear uneven or blurred, or the coloring varies with different shades of brown, tan, or black. Another warning sign is a diameter larger than six millimeters. These guidelines help highlight changes that should be evaluated by a professional.
When is it best to get a skin cancer screening?
Most people benefit from a skin cancer screening once or twice a year, although more frequent visits may be recommended if you notice new or changing moles or lesions. Early evaluation plays an important role in detecting concerns while they are easier to treat. If you’re unsure whether a spot requires attention, scheduling a visit at our Lubbock, TX practice can provide clarity and peace of mind.
When is it necessary to have a biopsy?
During your exam, our team will closely assess any area of the skin that appears unusual. If a spot shows features that may indicate skin cancer, a biopsy may be recommended. This small tissue sample is the most reliable way to determine whether cancer is present. Because visual inspection alone cannot confirm most cases, biopsies are often an important next step when something looks suspicious.
Healthy Skin Starts with Proactive Care
More than five million skin cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. each year, and early detection saves lives. A professional annual skin exam gives you the confidence that your skin is being cared for the right way. At Owen Health Group in Lubbock and Snyder, TX, we take the time to make each exam thorough, respectful, and informative. Our team is here to help you feel comfortable and well cared for during every visit. Call us today to schedule your full body skin exam and protect your skin health all year long.