Cancer is the abnormal mutation of healthy cells. Skin cancer is triggered by the uncontrolled multiplication of healthy skin cells caused by exposure to UV rays, chemical exposure, radiation, or underlying diseases. The causes and risk factors vary for the three major skin cancer types: Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, and Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Here are the visible markers and silent signs of skin cancer to note to help ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Unusual moles
Significant forms of skin cancer, including melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma, may also trigger the development of skin-colored or pink moles. These are not harmless bumps and should be checked by a skincare specialist. A rare but critical form of amelanotic melanoma triggers the growth of these bumpy nodules that can develop unexpectedly without any prior indication of skin problems.

Development of multiple dark patches
Melanoma is one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of skin cancer among adults. One of its glaring visible signs is the unusual and progressive development of dark-colored patches. While these may look like moles, doctors advise identifying the growth pattern of the extra skin. Multiple moles and patches may develop throughout the body, some black, others brown, and even reddish in color. If one of the patches doesn’t resemble the rest, look for asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and its evolving pattern to establish the type of melanoma based on appearance.

Unexplained bleeding
Skin cancer affects the healthy cells that bind together to form the epidermis (outer layer of the skin). The mutation slowly but surely spreads once the cells start to multiply out of control. This can trigger unexplained bleeding while doing the most basic and routine tasks. For example, experiencing bleeding frequently during or after shaving can indicate a developing problem. The bleeding may also not develop from a nick of the blade but rather due to the erosion of healthy cells that makes the skin fragile to touch.

A waxy bump under the skin
A skin-colored or translucent bump that grows on the face, head, or neck could indicate an early sign of basal or squamous cell skin cancer. It may develop in the shape of a pimple but is often ignored since there is no evident pain or discomfort caused by the bump. However, if the bump starts growing without any further symptoms developing, it is advisable to get it looked at. The translucent layer could cover a thicker, much harder bump that changes shape, size, or texture. The overgrowth may very well be Merkel cell carcinoma, one of the rarest but most aggressive forms of skin cancer.

Mark on toenails
A visible dark vertical mark on either of the toenails that causes a bend in its shape can also be one of the developing silent signs of skin cancer. This line can also develop on one of the fingernails. If no physical injury has resulted in a blood clot or undergrowth that causes the line to appear, it could be skin cancer. The mutation under the nail can cause it to bend out of shape resulting in visible marks and overgrowth. If the width of this line is more than 3 millimeters, it is necessary to get the line checked by a skin specialist.