Is It Benign or Skin Cancer? Here’s How to Tell

Have you ever noticed a new mark or bump on your skin and found yourself wondering, “Could this be skin cancer?” If so, you’re far from alone. Over the past 12 years, I’ve helped more than 40,000 patients ask and answer that very question. The good news is that most skin lesions are harmless—but recognising the concerning ones early can be life-saving.

Let’s break it down.

Understanding Skin Lesions

A skin lesion is any mark, bump, or spot on your skin that looks different to the skin around it. While many are benign (non-cancerous), including moles, sun spots, and seborrhoeic keratoses, others may be more serious and signal skin cancer—such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), or melanoma.

Benign lesions often remain unchanged for years, but malignant lesions can evolve, bleed, crust, or grow.

Common Types You Might See

Here are a few of the common types of benign lesions:

• Moles: Especially if present from an early age and unchanged.
• Seborrhoeic Keratosis: Waxy, wart-like growths that appear stuck onto the skin.
• Solar Lentigines (Sun Spots): Flat, brown marks that increase with age and sun exposure.

And some lesions that may be precancerous:

• Actinic Keratosis (AK): Rough, scaly patches usually found on sun-exposed areas.
• Bowen’s Disease: A red, scaly patch that looks like a persistent rash.

Skin Cancers to Watch For

• BCC (Basal Cell Carcinoma): The most common form, often looks like a scabby spot that won’t heal.
• SCC (Squamous Cell Carcinoma): Can grow quickly and may look crusty or lumpy.
• Melanoma: The most dangerous form, often a new or irregularly shaped mole or mark.

Debunking the Myths

A common myth is that only those with lots of moles or fair skin need to worry. In truth, anyone with a history of sun exposure—builders, gardeners, golfers—can be affected.

Another misconception? That all new moles after the age of 30 are harmless. In fact, any new moles should be checked—especially if they look different to the rest.

What to Watch For: ABCDE & EFG of Melanoma

• A – Asymmetry
• B – Border irregularity
• C – Colour variation
• D – Diameter over 6mm or different from other lesions
• E – Evolving in shape, size, or colour
• E – Elevated
• F – Firm
• G – Growing

Other red flags include:

• A sore that doesn’t heal or returns repeatedly
• A lesion that changes quickly
• One that looks unlike the others (the “ugly duckling”)
• A lesion that bleeds without trauma

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instinct—it’s worth getting checked.

What You Can Do Today

Early detection is everything. Start by learning your own skin. Use a mirror (or ask a partner) to regularly check areas you can’t see yourself—like your back. Photograph any moles or marks you’re unsure about and track any changes.

Still unsure? Watch my YouTube video where I show examples of both benign and malignant lesions: Watch here

Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Your skin is worth protecting—know it, check it, and act early.

📍 Dr Finbar’s Skin Clinic
Camlough Retail Park, Camlough, BT35 7GB
📞 028 3082 8945
📧 info@drfinbar.com
🌐 www.drfinbarsskinclinic.com