Skin cancer has increased in the United States over the last several decades. Every year, more than 2 million cases of skin cancer are found in the U.S. This is because more people are living longer and getting more sun exposure over their lifetime.

About half of all Americans will get a skin cancer before they turn 65. Some people will be diagnosed more than once.

Some types of skin cancer, like basal cell carcinoma, grow slowly and usually do not spread. Nine out of 10 skin cancers are this type. Other types, like melanoma, are more serious. Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body and can be deadly.

The best ways to watch your skin for signs of skin cancer include:

• Learn about skin cancer.
• Wear clothes that protect your skin from the sun. Use broad spectrum sunscreen regularly.
• Check your skin often. Watch for any changes.
• If you see any new growths on your skin, tell a healthcare provider.
• Get a yearly skin check from a healthcare provider.

Common Types of Skin Cancer

The three most common types of skin cancer are:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Melanoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer in the United States.

This cancer starts in the outer layer of the skin. It usually grows slowly and does not spread to other parts of the body. It rarely causes death. But it still needs treatment because it can damage the tissue and bone underneath the skin.

Four subtypes of basal cell carcinoma are:

• Nodular – Usually a small, round bump. This is the most common type.
• Morpheaform – Looks like a flat, sunken scar.
• Superficial – Looks like a red, scaly patch. It stays on the surface of the skin.
• Pigmented – Has different colors and can sometimes look like melanoma.

Squamous Cell Cancer

Squamous cell cancer is the second most common type of skin cancer. It usually looks like an uneven, reddish, crusty area. It can grow into nearby tissue. It is more likely to spread to other parts of the body than basal cell carcinoma.

It tends to develop in:

• Areas of the body that have had a lot of sun over the years, like the face, back of the hands, and arms.
• Wounds that take a very long time to heal.
• Scars from burns or radiation.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It starts in the cells that give your skin its color. It has the highest risk of spreading to other parts of the body, including the brain, lungs, and intestines.

There are four main types:

• Lentigo maligna (“sunspot”) – An uneven tan or brown patch with irregular shape or color.
• Superficial spreading – An uneven patch with different colors and shapes. It mostly appears on the trunk or upper arms and legs.
• Nodular – A small, round lump that is often brown, black, gray, red, or skin-colored.
• Acral lentiginous – A dark brown or black patch found on the palms, soles of the feet, or under the nails. It can occur in all skin types but is more common in people with darker skin.

Melanomas usually do not cause symptoms. But any new spot that has an unusual shape or color, or any mole that changes in color, size, surface, or borders, should be checked with a biopsy. If found early, almost all melanomas can be cured.

Last Updated May 2026