Skin cancer is a condition where abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably due to damage, often caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. There are 3 main types of skin cancer: 

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

1. Most common type of skin cancer.
2. Develops in the basal cells, which are found in the outermost layer of the skin.
3. Symptoms: Often appears as a pearly or flesh-coloured bump, pinkish patch, or a sore that doesn’t heal. It typically grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
4. Causes: Long-term sun exposure or tanning beds.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

1. Second most common type of skin cancer.
2. Arises from squamous cells, which also make up part of the skin’s outer layer.
3. Symptoms: Often presents as a red, scaly patch, open sore, or wart-like growth that may crust or bleed. It can grow more aggressively than BCC and has the potential to spread if left untreated.
4. Causes: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. 

Melanoma

1. The most serious type of skin cancer.
2. Develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin.
3. Symptoms: Typically appears as an irregular, asymmetrical mole or dark spot with uneven borders and varying colours. It can rapidly spread to other parts of the body if not caught early.
4. Causes: Intense, intermittent sun exposure or tanning beds, as well as genetic factors.

Other less common types of skin cancer include Merkel cell carcinoma and Kaposi sarcoma, but BCC, SCC, and melanoma are the most prevalent.  

What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?

• New growths or unusual moles
• Changes in the size, colour, or shape of moles or spots
• Lesions that don’t heal or bleed
• Itchy, scaly, or rough patches of skin
• Dark lesions or spots