Why a Monthly Skin Check Matters
Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, yet it's also one of the most treatable when detected early. The key to early detection? Regular monitoring. A simple monthly skin check—taking just 10 minutes—can help you notice changes that might otherwise go undetected until they become serious.
Studies show that people who perform regular self-examinations are more likely to detect melanoma at an earlier, more treatable stage. Combined with online dermatologist reviews, this habit creates a robust safety net for your skin health.
Your Step-by-Step Monthly Check
Follow this systematic approach to ensure you don't miss any area. Set a recurring reminder on your phone—the first Sunday of each month works well for many people.
Face & Scalp
Examine your face, ears, and scalp (use a blow dryer to part hair). Check your nose, lips, and behind your ears.
Arms & Hands
Check both sides of your arms, between your fingers, under nails, and palms. Don't forget your underarms.
Torso
Use a mirror to examine your chest, stomach, and entire back. Check under breasts and along your sides.
Legs & Feet
Examine the front and back of your legs, between toes, soles of feet, and toenails.
What to Look For: The ABCDE Rule
When examining moles and spots, use the ABCDE criteria to assess whether a lesion needs professional attention:
Asymmetry
One half doesn't match the other
Border
Irregular, ragged, or blurred edges
Color
Uneven color or multiple shades
Diameter
Larger than 6mm (pencil eraser)
Evolution
Changing in size, shape, or color
Documenting Your Findings
The most valuable part of a monthly check is creating a visual record over time. Changes that happen gradually can be impossible to notice without comparison photos. Here's how to document effectively:
- Photograph every mole – Use consistent lighting and angles each month
- Use AI scanning – AI tools can detect subtle changes that the naked eye misses
- Keep a body map – Note the location of each spot you're tracking
- Compare monthly – Side-by-side comparison is the most powerful detection method
When to Escalate to Expert Review
Not every change requires a dermatologist visit, but some findings warrant prompt professional attention. Request an online expert review if you notice:
- Any mole that meets one or more ABCDE criteria
- A new mole appearing after age 30
- A sore that hasn't healed in 3 weeks
- A spot that looks different from all your other spots ("ugly duckling" sign)
- Any skin change that causes you concern or anxiety
The beauty of online expert reviews is that you can get professional guidance within hours—no need to wait weeks for an appointment.
Making It a Habit
The hardest part of any health routine is consistency. Here are proven strategies to make monthly skin checks stick:
- Pair it with something you already do – Check your skin the same day you pay bills or do laundry
- Set a phone reminder – Recurring calendar events work wonders
- Make it a couples activity – Partners can check hard-to-see areas for each other
- Use technology – AI scanning apps make the process faster and more engaging
Found Something During Your Check?
Don't wait weeks for an appointment. Get a board-certified dermatologist's opinion in as little as 8 hours.
Request Expert Review