Your Quick Guide to the Most Common Skin Cancers (Basal and Squamous Cell)

An astonishing one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. You can treat most kinds of skin cancer with success if it is detected early.

There are four main kinds of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and precancerous actinic keratoses. 

Take a look at symptoms and treatment options for these two most common skin cancers (basal and squamous cell). 

Quick Intro to Basal Cell Carcinoma 

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer.

It normally shows up on people with fair skin and looks like a round, flesh-colored growth, a pinkish patch of skin, or a pearl-like bump.

Quick Intro to Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The second most common type of skin cancer is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). It can develop on dark skin, but fair skin is most likely to develop this kind of skin cancer.

SCC appears as a sore that heals and reopens, a scaly patch, or a firm red bump. 

Treatment Options for the Most Common Skin Cancers (Basal and Squamous Cell) 

One of the best treatment options for curing the most common skin cancers (basal and squamous cell) is Mohs surgery. It saves the most amount of skin for minimal scarring, while having a high cure rate.

Mohs is recommended for skin cancer around the nose, lips, ears, and more. It’s performed in one in-office visit, and the wound is closed by your doctor or left to heal on its own. 

When to Get Help From the Professionals at Acworth Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center 

Always seek the help of a professional if you have any changes in your skin, even if you don’t think you have one of most common skin cancers (basal and squamous cell).

Here at Acworth Dermatology, we are experts in skin cancer and Mohs Surgery. Contact our clinic today at 678-505-8030 to set up a consultation. Each diagnosis is personal, and treatment is always tailored to your specific needs.