Know the skin you’re in

8th May 2025
Dr Eloise James

2 min read

Do you really know your skin? Like, really know it?

Knowing your skin, knowing its moles and freckles, and being aware of changes to them is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself from developing skin cancer.

Two out of every three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, most of which are preventable. Skin cancers are mostly caused by exposure to UV radiation from the sun and show up on the skin in a variety of different ways. Knowing your risk of skin cancer and knowing your own skin – what is normal and what isn’t – is the key to preventing skin cancer and picking it up early if a skin cancer arises.

Knowing your own risk

The risk of skin cancer varies from person to person. Being aware of your own personal risk of developing skin cancer is important so you can take adequate measures to protect yourself from the sun. Risks can be non-modifiable and modifiable, depending on the situation.

Non-modifiable risk factors

Certain skin types, for example those with fair skin, and fair or red hair
Those with multiple moles and freckles
Family or personal history of melanoma or keratinocyte (non-melanoma) skin cancer
Those who are immune suppressed, for example with genetic conditions, or taking certain medications like long term steroids, chemotherapy agents, or medications for organ transplant
Those with other specific medical conditions, such as Xeroderma Pigmentosum or
Fanconi’s anaemia
Living in a country with high UV levels (like Australia!)

Modifiable risk factors

Occupations with high sun exposure, such as builders, farmers
Hobbies or leisure activities involving sun exposure, such as sailing, rowing, golf and many others
Use of sun beds or solariums

Self Skin Checks

MSCAN, on advice from the experts, recommends conducting regular self skin checks at home. You are the only person able to notice day to day, week by week changes to your skin and this is why it is so important to do self checks. It is an easy, effective and free way to detect any signs of early cancer!

View our step by step guide to conducting your own skin check at home.

Look for moles that appear different from other moles (ugly ducklings) or that are changing or growing. If you notice a change in a mole or an ugly duckling, ask your doctor to check it.

Next steps

If you do spot a mole or lesion that you’re worried about or you are concerned you have a spot that is changing over time or want to discuss your personal risk, make an appointment with your GP. Many GPs have extra qualifications and training in skin cancer, and are more than capable of identifying concerning lesions. GPs are also able to take biopsies. A GP may also refer you to a dermatologist, who is an expert in skin.

Technology and the future of skin checks

It is undeniable that technology and Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) are playing increasing roles within our lives, and our skin health is no exception. MSCAN is partnered with the Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging and Diagnosis (ACEMID), a collaboration between the University of Queensland, University of Sydney and Monash University. The ACEMID team is conducting the world’s largest clinical trial in total body photography, with new imaging and diagnostic methods to detect skin cancers early. This project aims to yield streamlined ways we can reduce the health and economic burden caused by skin cancer. Ultimately, A.I, will likely be part of this process.

A word on skin cancer mobile apps

There are a number of apps available that promise to aid with skin assessments at home, however MSCAN would advise against using these apps, and especially using them alone without any support from a professional. These apps are unable to replicate a professional skin assessment, and we do not recommend using them to diagnose skin cancer.

I’m Eloise, I’m a doctor who has recently relocated to Melbourne from London, England. My current role is hospital based, in general medicine, although I am an aspiring Dermatology specialist. It is an incredibly diverse field, with fantastic opportunities to make a real difference in patients’ lives, and I look forward to contributing to the space.

Having a strong family history of all types of skin cancer, and after growing up the sunny cities of Dubai and Singapore, sun protection has always been a hot topic, and I am very passionate about the subject across personal and public health. Thanks for reading!