Full Body Skin Exam
in Phoenix, Arizona

How Often Should You Get a Full Body Skin Exam?

The frequency of skin exams depends on various factors, including your skin type, history of sun exposure, family history of skin cancer, and the presence of numerous or atypical moles. Generally, it is recommended to have a yearly exam, but our team might suggest a different schedule based on your individual needs. Additionally, patients should be examining their own skin on a monthly basis to monitor any abnormal growths in the skin. If you notice any of the ABCDEs of skin cancer warning signs, you may want to schedule a skin exam soon, regardless of whether you are due for an exam:

• Asymmetry: each half of a birthmark or mole should match or be symmetrical.
• Border: irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred edges should be checked by a doctor.
• Color: different colors or shades within a spot may be cause for concern.
• Diameter: spots over 6 mm across should be checked by a doctor.
• Evolving: the spot changing in size, shape, or color over time could indicate skin cancer.

How to Prepare for a Full Body Skin Exam

Preparing for a full body skin exam at Arizona Skin is straightforward and essential for an effective examination. Here are some key steps to ensure you are fully prepared:

• Avoid Makeup and Nail Polish: It’s important to come to your appointment with clean, makeup-free skin. Makeup can obscure the view of your skin, making it difficult for the dermatologist to spot abnormalities. Similarly, remove nail polish from both fingernails and toenails, as nails can be an area where skin cancer develops.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose clothing that is easy to remove, as you will be asked to change into a medical gown for the exam. Comfortable clothing will make the process of changing quicker and less cumbersome.
• Document Your Skin’s Condition: If you have noticed any changes in your skin, such as new moles or changes in existing moles, make a note of these areas. It helps to write down their locations and any other details you’ve observed (size, color, texture changes). This information is valuable for your dermatologist.
• Avoid Applying Lotions or Creams: Prior to your exam, refrain from applying lotions, creams, or perfumes to your skin. These products can make it harder for the dermatologist to examine the skin properly.
• Hair Considerations: If you have long hair, consider tying it back to allow easy examination of the scalp, an important part of the skin check.
• Bring a List of Questions or Concerns: If you have any questions about your skin or specific areas of concern, write them down and bring the list to your appointment. This ensures you won’t forget to address any important points during your visit.

What Can I Expect During a Full Body Skin Exam at Arizona Skin?

During the exam, our team will thoroughly inspect your skin, from head to toe. This includes looking at areas that are not commonly exposed to the sun. The process is non-invasive and typically takes about 20 minutes. Patients are provided with a gown, and privacy is respected at all times.

What Types of Skin Cancer Can Be Detected During a Full Body Skin Exam?

Our team looks for four kinds of skin cancers during a dermal exam:

• Actinic Keratoses (AK):This kind tends to form after age 40 around areas of the skin that have been exposed to sunlight — such as the head, throat, hands, and forearms. AKs look like scaly, dry spots and are generally deemed precancerous because they could develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):This is the most common type of skin cancer. BCC can form anywhere on the body and may look like a pink area or a pearl-sized, flesh-colored bump. BCC needs to be treated because it could grow into nerves and bones, resulting in disfigurements and damage.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):This is the second most common form of skin cancer. Forming on the skin that gets the most UV exposure, SCC looks like scaly spots; firm, red bumps; or sores that heal and reopen. These should be eliminated to avoid damage and disfigurement.
• Melanoma: This kind of cancer grows abruptly as a dark spot on the skin. Our team uses the ABCDs to detect melanoma: Asymmetry, Border, Color, and Diameter. Based on information from the Skin Cancer Foundation, melanoma accounts for only one percent of skin cancer cases but for the majority of skin cancer deaths. For this reason, melanoma needs to be treated quickly once it’s diagnosed.

How Much Does a Full Body Skin Exam Cost?

The cost of a full body skin exam varies, as each patient’s situation is unique. The cost can also change if cancerous growth is discovered during the exam, at which point further treatment will be needed. During your consultation, we will discuss your personalized treatment plan, which will determine the cost. However, annual full body skin exams are typically covered by health insurance providers. Patients are encouraged to check their health insurance plans to determine their eligibility for coverage. Furthermore, Arizona Skin offers financing options to make all our treatments more affordable.

What Happens if a Suspicious Area is Found During the Exam?

If a suspicious area is found, our team may order blood work or perform a biopsy on a skin lesion to determine whether it’s cancerous or benign (non-cancerous). If the skin lesion is benign, no further treatment is needed. If the lesion is determined to be cancerous, our team will explain the skin cancer treatment options available to you and help you move forward with treatment.

At Arizona Skin, we are committed to providing thorough and compassionate care to all our patients. Whether you’re in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Buckeye, or Surprise, we invite you to contact us for a full body skin exam. Early detection is key to maintaining healthy skin, so schedule your consultation today and take an important step towards your skin health.