Skin cancer is the rapid growth of cancerous cells in the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) that is caused by mutations in the cells
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. About 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Watch this video to learn more.
Basal cell carcinoma occurs in the basal cells of the skin and is often found on areas of the body that are more exposed to sunlight, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, and shoulders.
Squamous cell carcinoma occurs in the squamous cells and is often found on the body where sunspots and sun damage are found, such as the ears, face, neck, and hands
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that occurs from melanocytes, whichare the cells that produce the melanin that colors our skin. Melanoma looks like moles and can be found on any part of the body. Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
Merkel cell carcinoma is rare and very aggressive. This type of skin cancer causes tumors that are hard and painless to appear on areas of the body that are exposed to the sun, most often on the head or neck. This type of skin cancer is associated with the virus Merkel cell polyomavirus.
peak UV index (between the hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM)
