Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers globally, and it’s also one of the most preventable—if caught early. Knowing how to stop the spread of skin cancer could literally save your life or someone else’s.
In this guide, we’ll break down the signs of spreading skin cancer, how it progresses, the role of early detection, and the most effective ways to keep it from spreading further.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably. The main types include:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): Most common, slow-growing, least likely to spread
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): More aggressive, can spread to lymph nodes
- Melanoma: The most dangerous and aggressive form, can quickly spread to other organs
Melanoma causes 75% of skin cancer-related deaths despite making up less than 5% of skin cancer cases.
How Does Skin Cancer Spread?
When skin cancer spreads, it typically follows this pattern:
- Local growth: The tumour grows into deeper skin layers
- Lymphatic spread: Cancer cells enter nearby lymph nodes
- Metastasis: Cancer travels through the bloodstream to distant organs like the lungs, liver, or brain
Stopping skin cancer early means intervening before it reaches the lymphatic or metastatic stage.
Early Signs Skin Cancer Might Be Spreading
- A mole or lesion growing quickly in size
- Changes in colour, shape, or texture
- Itching, bleeding, or oozing that won’t heal
- Hard lumps under the skin (swollen lymph nodes)
- Unexplained fatigue, weight loss, or pain
Tip: Use the ABCDE rule to check moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter over 6mm, Evolving shape/size.
How to Stop Skin Cancer from Spreading
If diagnosed early, skin cancer is highly treatable. Here are key strategies to stop it in its tracks:
1. Get Checked Regularly
Early detection is your best defence. Schedule an annual skin exam with a dermatologist, especially if you have:
- Fair skin or a history of sunburn
- A family history of skin cancer
- Many moles or freckles
- History of tanning bed use
Self-check monthly using a mirror to inspect your body from head to toe.
2. Don’t Ignore Suspicious Spots
If something looks off, get it examined. Catching a tumour before it reaches deeper tissue can be the difference between a simple removal and aggressive treatment.
3. Protect Your Skin Every Day
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Reapply every 2 hours—more often if swimming or sweating
- Avoid sun between 10 AM–4 PM when UV rays are strongest
- Wear hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing
4. Stop Using Tanning Beds
Tanning beds increase your melanoma risk by up to 75%. There’s no such thing as a “safe tan.” Switch to self-tanning lotion if you want a bronzed look.
5. Remove High-Risk Lesions Early
Dermatologists may recommend removing atypical moles or pre-cancerous lesions like actinic keratosis. This is a proactive way to reduce your risk before it becomes dangerous.
6. Know Your Body and Risk Factors
- Use photos to track mole changes
- Note any new itching or bleeding
- Get genetic testing if your family has a history of melanoma
Treatment Options to Stop Spread of Skin Cancer
If caught early, most treatments are quick and non-invasive:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing pre-cancerous lesions
- Excision: Surgical removal of the tumour
- Mohs surgery: Layer-by-layer removal, used for facial or high-risk tumours
- Radiation or chemotherapy: For advanced or spreading cancers
- Immunotherapy: Boosts your body’s defences to fight melanoma
Explore: how vaginal health issues may also show visible skin signs.
Can Skin Cancer Be Cured?
Yes, especially when caught early. The five-year survival rate for stage 1 melanoma is over 98%. But once it spreads to distant organs, that rate drops significantly—to about 30% or lower.
FAQs
Q: Can sunscreen really prevent skin cancer?
A: Yes. Regular sunscreen use reduces melanoma risk by up to 50%. It’s your daily defence.
Q: What’s the difference between a mole and melanoma?
A: Melanoma often looks irregular—uneven borders, mixed colours, rapid changes. When in doubt, get it checked.
Q: How fast can skin cancer spread?
A: Some types (like basal cell) grow slowly, while melanoma can spread in weeks. Early action is key.
Q: Can people of colour get skin cancer?
A: Yes. Though less common, skin cancer in darker skin often goes undetected longer—making awareness just as important.
Final Thoughts
How to stop the spread of skin cancer begins with awareness. Know your skin. Protect it daily. Check for changes. And never delay seeing a doctor if something looks or feels off.
It’s not just about survival—it’s about peace of mind.
Looking to take charge of your health? Read: How to check if you are pregnant.