How to Perform a Melanoma Self-Exam

Sun Protection | Sun Dangers | The UV Index | UV Radiation
The Sun & Skin Cancer | Skin Self-Exam

Learn about melanoma and what to look for during a self-exam.

Check yourself from head to toe. Don't forget to check all areas of the skin, including the back, the scalp, between the buttocks, and the genital area.

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1. Look at your face, neck, ears, and scalp. You may want to use a comb or a blow dryer to move your hair so that you can see better. You also may want to have a relative or friend check through your hair because this is difficult to do yourself.
2. Look at the front and back of your body in the mirror, then raise your arms and look at your left and right sides.
3. Bend your elbows and look carefully at your fingernails, palms, forearms (including the undersides), and upper arms.
4. Examine the back, front, and sides of your legs. Also look between your buttocks and around your genital area.
5. Sit and closely examine your feet, including the toenails, the soles, and the spaces between the toes.

Sun Protection | Sun Dangers | The UV Index | UV Radiation
The Sun & Skin Cancer | Skin Self-Exam