Find Your Solution

Your skin is the largest organ of your body, so skin cancer screenings can reveal much about your overall health and well-being. Covering 18 square feet and weighing 7 pounds on the average adult, your skin is the waterproof barrier that protects your body from dirt, bacteria, and harmful substances, and also helps to regulate your body temperature.

Dermatologists and their physician assistants are trained to catch the early signs and symptoms of skin cancer; pre-cancers, basal cell cancers, squamous cell skin cancers, and malignant melanoma. While a self-exam is great, you can’t reach every area to see if there is a spot to worry about. A good way to ensure early detection and treatment, especially for those at increased risk, is with an annual full-body skin cancer screening examination by a dermatologist at Trillium Creek Dermatology. We are serving the following communities and those surrounding: Wooster, Wadsworth, Medina, Brunswick, Strongsville, and Hinkley.

What to Expect At Your Skin Cancer Screening

During your skin cancer screening exam, a Trillium Creek Dermatology skin healthcare expert will check every part of your body for skin cancers — including your head, nose, ears, breast, groin, buttocks, and toes. Your dermatologist will be looking for discolored areas, bumps, unusually shaped freckles, unusual moles, and suspicious spots with irregular borders. Full body exams are especially important for people who work outdoors.

Most skin cancers, if caught and treated early, are 100% curable. If an area or bump looks suspicious, it will be biopsied through a simple procedure of numbing it and then shaving off a skin sample to send to a laboratory. Patients with a skin biopsy of proven skin cancers on the head and neck are referred to Dr. Bryan Baillis at the Mohs Skin Cancer Center at Trillium Creek Dermatology.

The entire skin cancer and screening test procedure takes only 15 minutes — and that 15 minutes may save your life.

Compassion When You Need It Most

At Trillium Creek Dermatology, we understand that a skin cancer diagnosis can be life-changing. That’s why we take a caring, compassionate approach to skin cancer screening tests, results, treatment, and Mohs surgery. When you come to our state-of-the-art facilities, we’ll take the time to answer your questions and address any skin cancer concerns you might have. And our dedicated staff of doctors will be at your service before, during, and after your treatment.

We also realize that some clients may have initial concerns that a skin exam may be embarrassing; however, our professional medical care staff will put you at ease. We have both male and female providers so you can choose the person you feel most comfortable with to perform your examination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions on Skin Cancer

At what age does skin cancer typically occur?

Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC) typically occur in those 50 and older.

Can a dermatologist tell if you have skin cancer?

Your dermatology provider can detect a lesion that is suspicious for skin cancer. In most cases, a biopsy is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Can a dry patch of skin be cancer?

Yes, a dry patch of skin that is non-healing, can be a type of skin cancer.

Can a skin cancer look like a pimple?

Basal Cell Carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that can look like a pimple, usually one that is present for long periods of time and does not heal.

Can laser remove skin cancer?

Typically, lasers are not the first line treatment for treating skin cancers.

Can skin cancer go away by itself?

Skin cancers do not commonly go away without treatment.

Can skin cancer kill you?

If left untreated, skin cancer can be fatal.

Can skin cancer show up suddenly?

Some types of skin cancers may appear and progress quickly, while others grow slowly.

Can you have skin cancer for years and not know?

Unfortunately yes, some people have skin cancers for years before they have them evaluated by their dermatology provider.

Can you spread skin cancer by picking it?

No, skin cancer is not spread or contagious, although picking it is not recommended.

Do you see an oncologist for skin cancer?

In some cases and for certain types of skin cancers, a person with skin cancer does see an oncologist.

Does skin cancer hurt to the touch?

Not all skin cancers are painful, but they can be.

Does skin cancer show up in blood work?

There is no specific blood test to detect skin cancers.

Does sunscreen stop skin cancer?

Liberal and consistent use of sunscreen can help reduce the risk of skin cancers. However, some skin cancers are relative to genetics or other environmental factors so sunscreen might not protect against all skin cancer.

How can you tell if a spot is skin cancer?

If you’re concerned a spot is cancerous, it is recommended to consult with your dermatology provider.

How common is non melanoma skin cancer?

It is one of the most common malignancies, affecting millions of people every year.

How do dermatologists remove skin cancer?

Skin cancer treatments vary greatly, therefore it is recommended that you consult with your dermatology provider about which treatment is right for you.

How do doctors check for skin cancer?

Through physical examination, your dermatology provider can detect a lesion that is suspicious for skin cancer. Many providers use a tool called a dermatoscope to help them further, and more accurately, evaluate any suspicious lesion. In most cases, a biopsy is necessary to confirm a diagnosis.

How do they remove skin cancer from scalp?

Skin cancer treatments vary greatly, therefore it is recommended that you consult with your dermatology provider about which treatment is right for you.

How does skin cancer start?

Skin cancers can be caused by a variety of factors including genetics, and environmental exposures, specifically to UV radiation from the sun and/or tanning beds. Damage from these things can cause changes in the skin, leading to skin cancer.

How fast does skin cancer spread?

Some types of skin cancers may appear and progress quickly, while others grow slowly.

How is skin cancer prevented?

Liberal and consistent use of sunscreen can help reduce the risk of skin cancers. However some skin cancers are relative to genetics or other environmental factors so sunscreen might not protect against all skin cancer.

How long after sunburn does skin cancer develop?

There is no specific time after a sunburn for a skin cancer to develop. Skin cancers can develop from the chronic and cumulative effect of sun damage over a person’s lifetime.

How long does it take to remove skin cancer?

Skin cancer treatments vary greatly, therefore it is recommended that you consult with your dermatology provider about which treatment is right for you.

Is Skin Cancer raised or flat?

Skin cancer can present in many ways. It is best to consult with your dermatology provider if you have a spot that is concerning.

Is there a difference between skin cancer and melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. Other skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are termed \u201cnon melanoma skin cancer\u201d.

Should skin cancer be removed?

In most cases, skin cancers should be treated by your dermatology provider.

What are the odds of surviving skin cancer?

Non melanoma skin cancers are not commonly fatal. Melanoma is not usually fatal, although the mortality rate is higher than that of non melanoma skin cancer.

What happens if skin cancer goes undetected?

Certain skin cancers can be fatal if left undetected.

What happens if you have skin cancer?

Skin cancer treatments vary greatly, therefore it is recommended that you consult with your dermatology provider about which treatment is right for you.

What skin cancer looks like when it starts?

Skin cancer can present in many ways. It is best to consult with your dermatology provider if you have a spot that is concerning.

What Skin Cancer Looks Like?

Skin cancer can present in many ways. It is best to consult with your dermatology provider if you have a spot that is concerning.

Where is skin cancer most commonly found on the body?

Skin cancers can be found anywhere on the body, but more commonly on sun exposed areas of the face, arms and trunk

Frequently Asked Questions about Melasma

Can liver problems cause melasma?

No. Liver problems do not contribute to melasma.

Can low progesterone cause melasma?

Classically, high progesterone levels have been seen in patients with melasma.

Can melasma appear suddenly?

Melasma is usually a gradual process with darkening of the skin occurring over weeks to months.

Can Melasma be caused by stress?

Lack of sleep and stress can worsen the symptoms of melasma.

Can Melasma be treated with laser?

Yes, there are certain lasers which can improve the appearance of melasma.

Can vitamin C treat melasma?

Yes, topical vitamin C is an antioxidant which can be used in melasma treatment regimens.

Does exfoliating help melasma?

Exfoliation can actually make melasma worse, especially if aggressive exfoliation is attempted. This causes inflammation in the skin and can worsen the condition. Light exfoliation, under the care of a dermatologist, may be attempted in some cases.

Does retinol help melasma?

Yes, topical retinol can be used in the treatment of melasma.

Does vitamin C serum help melasma?

Yes, vitamin C is an antioxidant which can be used in melasma treatment regimens.

Does Vitamin E help melasma?

Yes, vitamin E is an antioxidant which can be used in melasma treatment regimens.

How can I permanently remove melasma from my face?

Melasma can fade on its own. This usually happens when a trigger, such as a pregnancy or birth control pills, causes the melasma. When a woman delivers her baby or stops taking birth control pills, melasma can resolve. However, some people have melasma without a known trigger and can struggle with it for many years, or even a lifetime.

How can I reduce melasma pigmentation naturally?

Mineral-based sunscreens can be used every morning to improve the appearance of melasma. Topical vitamin C can also be attempted.

How can I treat melasma at home?

Mineral-based sunscreens in the morning and topical retinol nightly can help treat melasma. These products are available over-the-counter.

How do I fix melasma on my face?

The first step is correcting the underlying cause if there is one. Hormonal changes induced by pregnancy and birth control pills can cause melasma in many people. Delivering your baby or discontinuing birth control pills can help resolve melasma. It is advised to protect your skin from the sun as much as possible. There are various topical treatments , but it is best to see a dermatologist first before embarking on a treatment regimen.

How do you get rid of stubborn melasma?

There are various treatments for melasma, but it is best to see a dermatologist first before embarking on a treatment regimen.

How long does it take for melasma to fade?

Unfortunately, melasma can take months to years to resolve.

Is melasma and freckles the same?

No, melasma is not the same as freckling.

Is melasma cancerous?

No, melasma is not cancerous.

Is melasma caused by estrogen or progesterone?

Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can be a driving factor in many cases of melasma. Pregnancy and birth control are the underlying cause in many cases.

Should I see a dermatologist for melasma?

Yes, it is important to see a dermatologist to confirm the correct diagnosis and to arrange a proper treatment regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions about Actinic Keratosis

Can actinic keratosis turn into basal cell carcinoma?

Yes, if left untreated, AKs can become SCC.

Do chemical peels help actinic keratosis?

Yes, they can help to remove some of the thick layer of dead skin on the surface of these lesions.

Does actinic keratosis need to be removed?

In most cases, it is recommended that AKs are removed or treated to prevent the progression into SCC.

Does Retin A help actinic keratosis?

Yes, it can help to remove some of the thick layer of dead skin on the surface of these lesions. It can also help to thicken the skin and reverse some of the sun damage that is the precursor for AKs.

How can you tell the difference between actinic keratosis and seborrheic keratosis?

These lesions can look very similar, but most commonly seborrheic keratoses are brown with a \u201ccrusty\u201d or \u201cwartlike\u201d appearance, where AKs are red with white scales. It is always recommended that you consult with your provider to determine the true nature of these lesions.

How do you treat actinic keratosis on face?

There are many ways to treat AKs, including cryotherapy, chemotherapy creams, various light and laser therapies, and chemical peels to name a few.

How is actinic keratosis prevented?

Limiting long term sun exposure is the key to preventing AKs- wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, sitting in the shade when possible. A good skin care routine is also helpful in reducing chronic sun damage.

Is actinic keratosis dangerous?

AKs themselves are not overly dangerous, but if they evolve to Squamous Cell Carcinoma they can be. SCC, if left untreated, can spread deeper into the skin and to other parts of the body internally.

Should actinic keratosis be biopsied?

If your provider is certain a lesion is an AK, a biopsy is not usually necessary. He or she may recommend simply to treat the lesion. If they are uncertain if the lesion is already a SCC, then a biopsy is warranted.

What causes keratosis?

In essence, long term sun exposure causes damage to the skin, resulting in AKs.

What does actinic keratosis look like?

Usually, they are red areas with a scale on top. Often they are mistaken for \u201cdry skin\u201d that doesn’t ever go away.

What is the best treatment for actinic keratosis?

Consult with your provider as to the best treatment for you.

What is the primary cause of actinic keratosis?

The cumulative effect of sun damage over a person’s life causes actinic keratosis.

Can actinic keratosis spread?

AKs can be developed on any part of the skin, but are not contagious.

Can actinic keratosis turn into cancer?

Yes, AKs can become squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.

Does actinic keratosis come back?

Unfortunately, even with treatment, AKs can come back.

Does hydrocortisone help actinic keratosis?

Hydrocortisone may help to smooth the lesions temporarily, but they are not an appropriate treatment for them.

How big can actinic keratosis get?

Most AKs remain small, larger lesions tend to evolve into squamous cell carcinoma.

How do you get rid of keratosis?

There are many ways to treat AKs, including cryotherapy, light therapy, laser therapy, chemotherapy cream, and chemical peels, to name a few.

How is actinic keratosis diagnosed?

AKs are usually diagnosed clinically by your dermatology provider.

Is actinic keratosis benign or malignant?

AKs are not benign, but not malignant either. They are precancerous, meaning they have the potential to become malignant skin cancer.

Is there an over the counter treatment for seborrheic keratosis?

No. If you are interested in the removal of seborrheic keratoses, it would be best to consult with your dermatology provider.

What does actinic keratoses look like?

Actinic Keratoses look like red, rough, flaky spots. Often, it resembles \u201cdry skin\u201d that doesn’t go away.

What happens if Actinic keratosis is left untreated?

If left untreated, AKs can progress to Squamous cell carcinoma.

What is the most effective treatment for actinic keratosis?

The most effective treatment will depend upon the individual and the thickness of the AK. All treatment options should be discussed with your dermatology provider

What percent of actinic keratosis turns into cancer?

There is a range of documented percentages, 5-15% is usually accepted.

Will salicylic acid remove actinic keratosis?

No. salicylic acid is not a curative treatment for AKs.