How Often Should You See a Dermatologist? Expert Advice on Skin Cancer Screenings

Regular skin checks are an important part of staying healthy — especially if you’ve had skin cancer before. In this video, Dr. Justin McLawhorn, M.D., a fellowship-trained, double board-certified dermatologist oncologist at UAMS, explains how often you should see your dermatologist. For most people, a routine check every few years may be enough. But for patients with a history of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma, Dr. McLawhorn recommends at least an annual visit to monitor for recurrence or new cancers. He also highlights the importance of skin self-exams: know where your spots are and what they look like. If you notice any changes in a spot, lump, or bump, bring it to the attention of your dermatologist right away.

Transcript

Getting a routine check by a dermatologist every few years may be acceptable, but patients who have a history of basal cell, squamous cell or melanoma would benefit from increased screening from their dermatologist. Often times I recommend that these patients be seen by their dermatologist at a minimum of once a year. The most important thing as it pertains to skin self- exams is knowing where your spots are and what they look like. If there’s any change in any spot, lump, or bump, that needs to be brought to the attention of your local dermatologist.