Skin Cancer Screenings and Total Body Skin Exams

A skin cancer screening, also known as a total body skin exam (TBSE), is a thorough visual examination of the skin conducted by a healthcare professional, typically a dermatologist. The purpose of this screening is to identify any unusual moles, growths, or skin abnormalities that could be indicative of skin cancer. During the exam, the healthcare provider carefully examines the entire body, including areas not typically exposed to the sun, as skin cancers can develop in various locations.

Dermatologists are trained to recognize and differentiate between benign moles, freckles, and other skin lesions from potentially harmful or cancerous ones. Identifying suspicious lesions early can prompt further evaluation or biopsy if necessary.

As one of the top medical skin treatment providers in the nation, there are many reasons to trust us to care for the health of your skin. This starts with our commitment to providing the latest proven, proactive, and comprehensive dermatologic care, including our Total Body Skin Exams.

In addition to offering care from the most qualified skin care professionals, our holistic approach to the treatment of the skin includes hair and nails, and you can count on us to take the time to examine you and provide a holistic approach to the health of your skin and your lifetime skin wellness journey.

If you are feeling apprehensive about a TBSE for a loved one or yourself, you are not alone. The combination of being disrobed for a full-body inspection and physical contact can make some patients feel more vulnerable than they would during other types of medical exams. 

Taking the time to read up on all that is involved in your first full body skin exam and what to expect is a smart step toward managing the experience.

What a Dermatologist Is Looking For During a Full Body Exam

The goal of a TBSE is to check the entire skin—the body’s largest organ—for any signs of skin cancer. This coverage includes the scalp, face, neck, ears, arms, legs, feet, toes, and torso. Special attention will be given to any skin lesions, moles, freckles, and birthmarks.

The dermatologist skin check will document the size, shape, color, and borders of each  skin mark. Because detecting changes over time is key to identifying potential skin cancer, annual TBSEs allow for a detailed record to compare from year to year. 

If anything appears suspicious, your dermatologist may recommend monitoring the area, scheduling follow-up visits, or performing additional testing. Your dermatologist will discuss any findings with you, as well as explain next steps.

Is a Full Body Skin Exam Painful Or Embarrassing?

At Pinnacle Dermatology, we understand that some patients can feel apprehensive or vulnerable, especially if it’s their first time to receive a full body skin exam. TBSEs are a gentle visual inspection of the body with no physical pain to be expected from the exam itself. However, if you have issues such as chronic pain or tender spots, please let us know so that we can better accommodate you.

Our providers at Pinnacle Dermatology are professionally trained and knowledgeable. We encourage you to share your personal preferences, such as receiving a total full body skin exam from a female dermatologist. Our care team aims to make your experience as comfortable as possible, so please voice any questions, concerns or feelings of apprehension with our care team.

With the skin being the body’s largest organ, it is important to allow sufficient time for your first and future TBSEs. In addition to timely arrival and expecting to stay the full duration, here are other tips on how to prepare for a full body skin exam, particularly when it is your first time:

• Wash your entire body.
• Wear clothing that is easy to remove.
• Wear shoes that are easy to slip off, and consider wearing shoes without socks.
• Consider skipping the application of makeup.
• Have your complete medical history ready, asking your blood relatives about any family history of cancer.
• Make a list of questions and concerns to discuss with the dermatologist.
• Share notes or photos of any concerning skin marks or changes that you have noticed.

While the team at Pinnacle Dermatology always hopes to give patients the “all clear,” there are occasions when something suspicious is found. If so, you can expect our dermatology provider to clearly communicate next steps which may include self-monitoring, follow-up appointments, testing, and potential future treatments. 

That aside, after your TBSE you can expect to resume normal activities and plan to come back for a dermatologist skin check next year.

The Importance of Skin Cancer Prevention

When it comes to skin cancer prevention, managing your skin’s exposure to sunlight is first and foremost. The best way to protect your skin from damaging sun exposure is to:

• Make a habit of regular sunscreen use: Choose dermatologist recommended sun protection products such as broad spectrum sunblock of 30 SPF. Apply whenever you’re outdoors, even during cloudy or winter days. Those whose professions or lifestyle involve extended daytime exposure should reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or profuse sweating.
• Protective clothing and accessories: Skin coverage with clothing and hats are a big help when it comes to sun protection. Wide brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, full coverage tops and pants, and even rash guards work well to manage exposure.
• Take shelter: Remaining indoors or in the shade—especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the UV rays are strongest—is very effective for skin protection.

Of course, the other core component of skin cancer prevention is to keep up with your skin cancer screening schedule and monitor for changes to the skin as directed by your dermatology provider.