Skin Checks

A skin check (full-body skin exam) is a head-to-toe evaluation of your skin to look for new, changing, or unusual spots, including moles, sun damage, and early signs of skin cancer.

Our dermatology team performs skin checks and uses tools such as dermoscopy (a handheld magnifier/light) to examine spots more closely. If anything looks concerning, we’ll discuss next steps with you.

Most skin checks take 10–20 minutes. Extra time is added if you have many spots to review, need a biopsy, or have specific concerns.

Wear clothing that’s easy to remove. We provide a gown and draping for modesty. Please bring:

• A list of medications and allergies
• Any prior skin biopsy or pathology reports (if available)
• Sunscreen and product names you use (optional)

Yes—skin checks are most effective when we can examine all skin, including scalp, palms/soles, and hard-to-see areas. You may keep underwear on; sensitive areas are examined only with your permission. A chaperone is available on request.

Please do. We’ll start with the areas you’re most worried about, then complete the rest of the exam.

We may use medical photography to document lesions over time. Images are stored securely in your medical record. Separate written consent is required for any non-clinical or educational use.

We’ll recommend a biopsy—a quick, in-office sample under local anesthesia. You can usually drive and return to normal activities afterward. Results typically return in about 1–2 weeks; we’ll contact you to review the findings and next steps.

Any procedure can leave a small mark. We use techniques designed to minimize scarring and provide after-care instructions to support healing.

Many adults benefit from yearly skin checks. You may need them every 3–6 months if you have higher risk (past skin cancer, many atypical moles, significant sun damage, fair or easily sunburned skin, organ transplant or other immunosuppression, tanning bed use, or strong family history). We’ll personalize a schedule for you.

Yes. Pediatric skin checks are available when there are concerning lesions, many moles, or a family history of melanoma. Parents/guardians are welcome in the exam room.

Coverage varies by plan. Many insurers cover medically necessary exams and biopsies. Cosmetic removals (for appearance only) are often not covered. If you’re unsure, contact your insurer or ask our team.

A mole check focuses on specific moles; a full-body skin check looks at all skin for cancers and precancers you may not notice. We can do either based on your needs.

Yes. Transplant recipients have a higher risk for certain skin cancers. We follow transplant-specific screening schedules and coordinate with your transplant team. (See our Skin Cancer Screening After Organ Transplant page for details.)

Once a month, in good light, use a full-length mirror and a hand mirror. Look for the ABCDEs of melanoma—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter, and Evolving (any change)—and any new, rapidly growing, bleeding, or non-healing spots. If you notice changes, schedule a visit.

Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply every 2 hours outdoors. Add protective clothing, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and shade when possible. Avoid tanning beds.

Most skin exams and many treatments/biopsies are safe. Tell your clinician—some medications and procedures are adjusted during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Call our office or request an appointment online. Please mention if you have a personal history of skin cancer, an organ transplant, or a rapidly changing lesion so we can prioritize scheduling.