Not all skin cancers are the same. Some grow slowly and rarely spread, while others require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the different types of skin cancer can help you recognize warning signs and know when to seek evaluation.
At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC, our experienced dermatology providers diagnose and treat all forms of skin cancer, from precancerous lesions to advanced cancers requiring specialized care.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) develops in the basal cells of the skin and is most often caused by years of cumulative sun exposure.
Common signs include:
A pearly or shiny bump
A sore that doesn’t heal
A pink or red patch
A scar-like area
Although basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it should be treated promptly to prevent local tissue damage.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) develops in the outer layers of the skin and commonly appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, arms, and hands.
Common signs include:
Rough, scaly patches
Firm red bumps
Open sores
Thickened or crusted lesions
Unlike basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma has a greater potential to spread if left untreated.
Melanoma develops from pigment-producing cells called melanocytes and can spread rapidly if not detected early.
Watch for:
New or changing moles
Irregular borders
Multiple colors
Rapid changes in appearance
Early detection dramatically improves treatment success.
Although actinic keratosis (AK) is not technically skin cancer, it is considered a precancerous condition caused by long-term sun damage.
Without treatment, some actinic keratoses can develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
Common signs include:
Rough, sandpaper-like patches
Pink or flesh-colored areas
Persistent scaly spots
Because early treatment can prevent progression, dermatology evaluation is recommended.
If your provider identifies a suspicious lesion during a skin cancer screening, additional evaluation may include:
Dermatoscopic examination
Skin biopsy
Pathology evaluation
Additional treatment planning if necessary
Accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment.
Every skin cancer is unique. Treatment recommendations depend on:
The type of skin cancer
Its size and location
How deeply it has grown
Whether it has spread
Your overall health
Treatment may include:
Observation of precancerous lesions
Cryotherapy
Topical medications
Surgical excision
Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery
Reconstruction when appropriate
Our providers will recommend the treatment option that offers the best balance of effectiveness and tissue preservation.
Schedule an appointment if you notice:
A new skin growth
A changing mole
A sore that won’t heal
Persistent scaly patches
A lesion that bleeds, crusts, or changes over time
Early evaluation can make treatment simpler and more successful.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer in the United States.
Melanoma has the greatest potential to spread to other parts of the body, making early detection especially important.
Yes. Some untreated actinic keratoses can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, which is why evaluation and treatment are recommended.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the leading risk factor, but genetics, immune system conditions, and other factors can also contribute.
A professional skin cancer screening helps detect suspicious moles and skin changes early. Learn what to expect during a full-body skin exam and when you should be screened.
Reduce your risk with practical sun protection strategies, early detection tips, and skin cancer prevention guidance.
From skin biopsies and surgical excisions to Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery, explore the treatment options available for skin cancer and what to expect at every stage of care.
Understand the most common type of skin cancer, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Learn how squamous cell carcinoma develops, the warning signs to watch for, and when treatment is recommended.
Explore the warning signs of melanoma, the importance of early detection, and available treatment options.
Expert care across medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.
Extensive surgical experience supporting precise, effective treatment of skin cancer.
A level of training not all surgeons have, ensuring advanced care.
Dedicated facilities in Fayetteville and Rogers offering complete care under one roof.
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for all major types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and precancerous actinic keratoses. From routine skin cancer screenings and biopsies to advanced surgical care and Fellowship-trained Mohs surgery, our experienced dermatology team helps patients throughout Northwest Arkansas receive expert care at every stage of diagnosis and treatment.
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC proudly serves patients throughout Northwest Arkansas with convenient locations including:
Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
Wednesday - Thursday 8 am – 5 pm
Monday – Thursday, 8 am – 5 pm
