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EXPERTISE · AESTHETICS · CARE
Skin Cancer
‘Any type of cancer that originates in the skin. It can develop anywhere on the body, including the palms, soles, and scalp.’
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer refers to any type of cancer that originates in the skin. It can develop anywhere on the body, including the palms, soles, and scalp. As it progresses, skin cancer can metastasize, spreading to nearby tissues and organs.
The two main types of skin cancer are:
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
Also known as keratinocyte cancer, this type develops in keratinocytes, the skin’s primary cells.
It has two main subtypes:
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Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common form of skin cancer.
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Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Typically found on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, and hands.
Malignant Melanoma
This aggressive form of skin cancer arises in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and requires prompt treatment.
Types of Skin Cancer
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What is it?
Actinic keratosis (AK), also known as solar keratosis, is a skin condition caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation (sunlight). Some experts believe that AK is the earliest form of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and is considered a precancer.
Where does it occur?
It appears more frequently on typically sun-exposed parts of the body such as face, neck, shoulders, and back.
What does it look like?
It often presents as rough dry, scaly patches that develop on skin that’s had frequent exposure to UV rays.
Is it serious?
If you suspect you have any of these symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
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What are the risk factors for skin cancer?
About 90% of skin cancers are caused by UV rays, but there are other factors that can determine your risk. Some of these factors are:
Your complexion
Fair-skinned people have less melanin in their skin and therefore less protection against the sun’s damaging UV rays.
History of sunburn
People who have had one or more severe, blistering sunburns as a child or teenager have an increased risk for melanoma. Sunburns in adulthood are also a risk factor for melanoma.
Tanning bed use
People are more likely to develop skin cancer from using tanning beds than developing lung cancer from smoking. Their use causes a 75 percent increase in melanoma risk when indoor tanning beds have been used before age 30.
Family history
Having a family member with skin cancer means you are a greater risk. The risk is especially strong if a close relative, such as a patient, sibling, or child, has skin cancer.
Number of moles
The risk is greater for people with 50 or more moles.
History of skin cancer
Once you’ve had one skin cancer, your risks for developing another increases.
Ways to prevent skin cancer
Most cases of skin cancer are preventable. You can reduce your risk of getting skin cancer by following these safety tips:
Cover Up:
When the UV Index is 3 or higher, prioritize protecting your skin. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat made of breathable fabric. Choose sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays to shield your eyes effectively.
Limit Sun Exposure:
Avoid staying in the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the UV Index in Dubai is typically 3 or higher. A simple rule of thumb: if your shadow is shorter than you, the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Seek shaded areas such as parks with large trees, partial roofs, awnings, umbrellas, or gazebo tents. If you're heading to the beach, always bring an umbrella.
Use Sunscreen:
Apply sunscreen whenever the UV Index is 3 or above. Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply as directed to maintain protection.
Avoid Tanning Equipment:
There’s no such thing as a “healthy” tan. Tanning equipment causes significant skin damage and increases the risk of melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Protect your skin by steering clear of these devices altogether.
Warning Signs of Melanoma Include:
Changes in the surface of a mole
Scaling, oozing, bleeding, or the appearance of a new bump
Spread of pigment from the border of a mole into surrounding skin
Change in sensation including itchiness, tenderness, or pain.
The ABCDEs of Melanoma: When to worry About Moles
Asymmetry
One half doesn’t match the other half in size, shape, color, or thickness.
Border irregularity
The edges are ragged, scalloped, or poorly defined.
Color
The pigmentation is not uniform. Shades of tan, brown, and black are present. Dashes of red, white, and blue add to the mottled appearance.
Diameter
While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm in diameter (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, they can be smaller. If you notice a mole different from others, or which changes, itches, or bleeds (even if it is small), you should see a dermatologist.
Evolution
The most important alerting sign is evolution or change in moles.
Treatment of skin cancer
If a skin biopsy confirms cancer, the dermatologist can recommend a range of medical and surgical treatments tailored to the type of cancer, its location, and the individual’s specific needs.
Surgical options include procedures like electrodessication and curettage (ED&C), which involves alternately scraping and burning the tumor while using low levels of electricity, surgical excision to remove the affected tissue, cryosurgery (freezing the tumor with liquid nitrogen), and Mohs micrographic surgery, which precisely removes cancerous cells layer by layer.
Other treatment methods may include radiation therapy or topical chemotherapy, depending on the severity and nature of the cancer. These approaches aim to effectively target and treat the condition while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Early detection is the surest way to a cure
Establish a regular habit of checking your skin for any changes. If you notice a new growth, mole, sore, or discoloration—or if an existing spot begins to change—schedule a visit with a dermatologist promptly. It’s also recommended to have an annual skin check by a dermatologist, particularly if you have numerous moles, a history of significant sun exposure, or a family history of skin cancer.
Your Skin Cancer Consultation
Your journey begins with a personalized consultation with Dr. Ahmad, who brings extensive experience in treating post-bariatric surgery patients with excess skin, honed during his previous practice in the United Arab Emirates. This is your opportunity to ask any questions about Skin Cancer procedures. Dr. Ahmad will take the time to address all your concerns and provide a thorough understanding of the process from start to finish.
During the consultation, you’ll also have the chance to view a portfolio of Dr. Ahmad’s work, showcasing a variety of results. Our priority is to educate our patients, as we believe that informed decisions lead to better outcomes—not only in choosing the right procedure but also the right surgeon.
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Dr. Ahmad Tavassoli Ashrafi
Plastic Surgeon
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