For most adults, dermatologists recommend a full-body skin exam once a year to detect early signs of skin cancer or other unusual skin changes. However, the ideal frequency depends on your personal risk factors, such as sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer, or a past diagnosis.
If you fall into a higher-risk group, you may need exams every six months instead. Understanding how often you should get a full-body skin exam helps ensure early detection and timely treatment of potential issues. Regular checkups are a simple, preventive step that can make a lasting difference in your overall skin health.
Regular skin checks are one of the simplest ways to protect your health. At DermOnDemand, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alicia Atkins and her team make full-body skin examinations faster and more accessible through digital consultations.
Understanding how often to schedule these exams can help you catch early signs of skin cancer and maintain long-term skin health.
Key Takeaways
- Most adults should schedule a full-body skin exam once a year, while individuals with a history of skin cancer or high sun exposure may need checkups every six months.
- A full-body skin examination allows dermatologists to detect early signs of melanoma and other common skin cancers before they become serious.
- Patients should perform monthly skin self-examinations to identify new or changing moles, freckles, or lesions between professional visits.
- Those with visible skin changes, such as itching, bleeding, or rapidly growing spots, should book a skin cancer screening immediately rather than wait for their next annual exam.
- DermOnDemand, led by Dr. Alicia Atkins, offers discreet online dermatology services that make expert evaluations and early detection more accessible, helping maintain lifelong skin health.
When and How Often to Get Checked
The frequency of your full-body skin exam depends on your individual risk of skin cancer. For most adults, an annual skin screening is recommended to detect skin changes or lesions early.
However, people with a history of skin cancer, frequent sun exposure, or a family history of skin disease may need to see a dermatologist every six months.
Frequency by Risk Level
If you have many moles or freckles, fair skin, or a history of using a tanning bed, your risk of skin cancer increases. In these cases, your dermatologist might suggest more frequent skin examinations to detect problems early.
What Age to Start Annual Screenings
Dermatologists recommend beginning annual skin screenings in early adulthood, especially for individuals who spend long hours outdoors. Those with inherited conditions or a family history of skin cancer may benefit from starting even earlier.
Preventive Benefits of Regular Exams
Routine body skin exams help identify suspicious skin lesions before they become dangerous. Early detection of skin cancer not only increases treatment success but also reduces the need for more invasive procedures.
What to Expect at Your Exam
A full-body skin examination is a painless, detailed check of your skin from head to toe. The process allows your dermatologist to identify common types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
How to Prepare for a Full-Body Skin Examination
Before your appointment, remove nail polish and makeup so the dermatologist can view your skin clearly. Bring a list of current medications and note any skin conditions or recent changes you’ve observed.
What Happens During a Full-Body Skin Exam
During the visit, your dermatologist inspects your skin under good lighting, examining areas often overlooked, such as the scalp, the back of the ears, and between the toes. Any moles, freckles, or unusual spots are documented for follow-up or biopsy if needed.
Can You Wear Undies for the Exam?
Yes, you can keep your underwear on during the exam. Dermatologists work professionally to ensure your comfort and privacy while still performing a complete skin cancer screening.
Male vs. Female Skin Exams
Both men and women undergo the same procedure, but concerns may differ. Women often ask about hormonal effects on skin health, while men may focus on areas with higher sun exposure, such as the back and scalp.
Cost and Access to Screenings
The cost of a skin cancer screening varies by clinic and insurance coverage, typically ranging from $100 to $250. Some plans include preventive skin examinations at no extra cost.
Online Dermatologist Exams with DermOnDemand
For those who prefer privacy and convenience, DermOnDemand offers digital skin consultations. You can upload photos of your skin lesions and receive a professional assessment and personalized treatment options without leaving home.
When to Schedule an Exam Sooner
You shouldn’t wait for your next annual skin screening if you notice changes in your skin. Learn more about how often you should see a dermatologist to stay proactive with your skin health.
Early Warning Signs and Skin Changes
Book an appointment immediately if a mole changes shape, color, or size, or if you see new skin lesions that bleed or itch. Learn more about how dermatologists remove moles, as these symptoms can indicate an early form of skin cancer.
Risk Factors That Require Frequent Checkups
You may need more frequent skin checks if you have a history of skin cancer, use tanning beds, or have chronic sun exposure due to outdoor work.
How to Check Your Skin Between Visits
Perform monthly skin self-examinations to spot problems early.
Monthly Self-Exam Techniques
Use a full-length mirror in a well-lit room. Check the front, back, and sides of your body, including hard-to-see areas like your scalp and feet.
When to Contact a Dermatologist
Contact a dermatologist if you find new or changing moles, sores that don’t heal, or any area that looks different from the rest of your skin.
Why Skin Exams Matter
Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
Regular skin cancer screenings can detect melanoma and other forms of skin cancer early, when treatment options are most effective. Early intervention saves lives and helps prevent further complications.
Fast, Discreet Care with DermOnDemand
At DermOnDemand, patients receive rapid, expert evaluations from Dr. Alicia Atkins and her team. Their approach combines professional care with modern technology, helping individuals reduce their risk of developing skin cancer and maintain long-term skin health.
