Skin cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of cancer in the United States. Estimates suggest that about 1 in 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer by the age of 70, which makes regular skin checks an important part of staying healthy. But the question many people ask is simple: how often should you get a skin cancer screening?

The answer depends on several factors, including your age, personal history of skin cancer, and other risk factors. Some people only need a screening every few years, while others should be seen at least once a year. Understanding the general guidelines can help you know what to expect and when to schedule your next appointment.

What Is a Full-Body Skin Cancer Screening?

A professional skin cancer screening is a visual examination of your skin. A dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in skin health, looks for suspicious spots, moles, or growths. This type of check is sometimes called a total body skin examination because it involves looking at your entire body, not just the areas that are exposed to the sun.

The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Each type can look different on the skin, which is why a trained dermatologist performs the examination. Professional screenings are designed to find suspicious changes early, before they have a chance to grow or spread.

General Screening Guidelines for Most Adults

For most adults, a professional full-body skin exam once a year is the most common recommendation. Many dermatologists suggest an annual visit so that any new or changing spots can be assessed promptly. A yearly screening also gives you a chance to ask questions about your skin and learn about any areas that need monitoring.

However, not everyone needs to see a dermatologist every year. A dermatologist at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel has explained that skin checks every two to three years are sufficient for roughly 80% of people. For this majority, a screening every few years may be enough to stay on top of skin health without unnecessary appointments.

The general advice for most people is that a routine check every few years may be enough, but annual visits are recommended for those with a history of skin cancer or other risk factors. Your dermatologist can help you figure out which category you fall into.

Screening Recommendations for High-Risk Individuals

Certain adults should be screened more regularly. According to data-driven screening recommendations, adults aged 35 to 75 with one or more risk factors should have a total body skin examination at least annually. This age range covers a period when skin damage may begin to show up as concerning changes that merit closer attention.

People who have already been treated for skin cancer also need ongoing surveillance. Most dermatologists recommend at least an annual visit to monitor for recurrence or new cancers. In some cases, a dermatologist may recommend a more frequent schedule for people who have had concerning spots removed, and some patients report being seen about every six months. The right interval should always be confirmed with a dermatologist who understands your medical history.

If your risk is high, waiting several years between appointments is not advised. An annual screening gives your dermatologist the opportunity to catch new or recurring skin cancers early, when treatment options are more likely to be effective.

Monthly Skin Self-Exams: What to Look For

Professional screenings are not the only tool for catching skin cancer early. Checking your skin on a regular basis helps you become familiar with your own moles and spots, so you can notice changes quickly. Many organizations, including the CDC and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, recommend performing a skin self-exam about once a month.

During a self-exam, you should look for new spots or moles, as well as existing moles that have changed in size, shape, or color. It is also important to check less visible areas of your skin, such as your back, scalp, behind your ears, and between your toes. These hidden spots are easy to overlook, but they can still develop skin cancer.

Monthly self-exams do not replace a professional screening. They work alongside it. If you find something suspicious between professional appointments, you can contact your dermatologist and schedule a visit sooner. Talk to your doctor about how often you should perform a self-exam, because your personal risk level may change the recommendation.

How to Choose the Right Screening Schedule for You

Choosing the right schedule starts with an honest look at your risk factors. Age, a history of skin cancer, and other personal factors all influence how often you should be screened. For some people, a screening every two to three years is perfectly safe. For others, an annual total body skin examination is the minimum.

During a skin cancer screening, your dermatologist can also give you personalized guidance on how often you should return. If you have risk factors that call for more frequent exams, your dermatologist will tell you. If your skin is clear and your risk is low, you may be told that a check every few years is enough.

At Colorado Dermatology Center in the South Denver area, the practice is led by board-certified dermatologist Dr. James M. Swinehart and focuses on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, with special emphasis on skin cancer treatment, including MOHS micrographic surgery. A complete skin examination can provide peace of mind and a clear plan for your next visit.

No matter what schedule you follow, the goal is the same: catch skin cancer early, when it is most treatable. Regular professional screenings combined with monthly self-exams give you the best chance of noticing changes in your skin before they become a bigger concern. If it has been more than a year since your last total body skin examination, consider scheduling an appointment and asking your dermatologist how often you should be screened.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get a skin cancer screening?

For most adults, a full-body skin cancer screening once a year is a common recommendation. However, some experts note that people with low risk may only need a screening every two to three years. Adults aged 35 to 75 with risk factors should be screened at least annually. Your dermatologist can recommend the right schedule based on your personal history and skin type.

Why do some people need skin cancer screenings more often?

People with a history of skin cancer are usually advised to have at least an annual visit to monitor for recurrence or new cancers. Adults aged 35 to 75 who have one or more risk factors should also be screened at least once a year. In some cases, a dermatologist may recommend a more frequent schedule, such as every six months, depending on your history.

How often should I check my skin at home?

A monthly skin self-exam is a common recommendation from organizations like the CDC and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. You should look for new spots or moles, as well as changes in existing moles. Checking less visible areas, such as your scalp, back, and between your toes, is also important. Talk to your doctor about how often you should check your skin.

What happens during a full-body skin cancer screening?

A full-body skin cancer screening, sometimes called a total body skin examination, is a visual exam performed by a dermatologist. The doctor examines your entire skin surface for suspicious spots, moles, or growths. The exam includes hard-to-see areas that are easy to miss during a self-check, which is one reason professional screenings are valuable for early detection.