Yearly Skin Exam

Your skin is your largest organ and one of the most important indicators of your overall health. At Clear Choice Dermatology, we offer comprehensive Yearly Skin Exams to help detect and prevent skin cancer, identify other skin conditions early, and give you peace of mind.

What Are Yearly Skin Exams?

A Yearly Skin Exam, also known as a full-body skin check, is a thorough evaluation performed by a dermatology provider to examine your skin from head to toe. These exams are designed to identify:

• Suspicious moles or lesions
• Early signs of skin cancer (including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma)
• Changes in existing spots or growths
• Other common or chronic skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis, acne, rashes)

Whether you're monitoring existing concerns or staying ahead of potential issues, yearly exams are a proactive step in your skincare and overall health routine.

Why Are Yearly Skin Exams Important?

Early detection can be life-saving. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but when caught early, it is highly treatable. Benefits of a yearly skin exam include:

• Early detection of skin cancer and precancerous lesions
• Personalized advice on sun protection and skin health
• Monitoring of moles and skin changes over time
• Education on what to watch for between visits
• Greater peace of mind

Even if you don’t have a history of skin issues, routine exams are recommended for everyone, especially those with fair skin, frequent sun exposure, or a family history of skin cancer.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Your comfort and privacy are important to us. Here’s what a typical Yearly Skin Exam includes:

1. Medical History Review: We’ll begin by asking about your personal and family history of skin cancer, sun exposure, and any concerns you've noticed with your skin.
2. Changing into a Gown: You’ll be asked to undress and change into a medical robe so your provider can perform a thorough, full-body skin exam. A private changing area is provided, and you’ll be draped appropriately throughout the exam to ensure comfort and modesty.
3. Full-Body Skin Exam: A licensed dermatology provider will carefully examine your skin from head to toe, including commonly overlooked areas like the scalp, back, and soles of the feet. We may use a dermatoscope, a handheld magnifier, to closely evaluate certain spots.
4. Biopsies (If Needed): If anything looks unusual or concerning, we may recommend a simple skin biopsy or schedule follow-up care. This is a quick procedure done in-office to help determine if a lesion is benign or requires treatment. 
5. Skin Health Counseling: Before you leave, your provider will review their findings with you, offer advice on sun protection, and provide guidance on how to perform self-skin checks at home.

How to Prepare

• Avoid wearing makeup and nail polish if possible
• Wear your hair loose or easily removable if tied up
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to make it easier for you to dress down
• Bring a list of any concerns or questions

Schedule Your Annual Exam Today

At Clear Choice Dermatology, we’re committed to early detection, personalized care, and patient education. A quick appointment could make a lasting difference in your health. Schedule online today.