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Christopher Zachary, M.D.
Chair, Department of Dermatology

Are you familiar with your skin? Have you noticed whether a mole has changed color or a new marking has formed on your body?

If you are not familiar with these changes, you need to be. These are clues to the development of skin cancer, one of the most common and preventable cancers in the world.

The major forms of skin cancer are:

• Melanoma: The most dangerous form, it often occurs in moles and can be fatal if untreated.
• Basal-cell carcinoma: This form is non-fatal, but removing the cancer can cause disfigurement of the face, where the disease often occurs. It is characterized by pimples that don’t heal, unyielding red bumps and red, scaly areas smaller than a pencil eraser.
• Squamous-cell carcinoma: The second most common form, squamous cell cancer may appear as a firm red bump, an abnormal patch of skin or a sore that does not heal. It is highly treatable.

Wearing appropriate clothing, using sunscreen and getting regular screenings are key to preventing skin cancer. According to Christopher Zachary, M.D., chair of the UC Irvine Department of Dermatology, everyone should check their entire skin every three to four months and schedule a skin exam annually.

Learn more about Dr. Zachary »