Persistent, crusty red spots on the face that do not respond to typical treatments may be a sign of skin cancer, according to Dr. Philippa Kaye, a general practitioner. She emphasizes that many individuals are unaware of the potential seriousness of these marks, often mistaking them for conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Dr. Kaye notes that cases of skin cancer are expected to rise, partly due to increased sun exposure, particularly during hot weather. She outlines the different types of skin cancer, their symptoms, and the importance of early detection.
Melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, typically appears as a mole that changes in size, shape, or color, or may itch or bleed. Around 20,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma annually in the UK, with approximately 2,600 deaths.
Squamous cell carcinomas often present as small, red, crusty patches that can be painful and tend to grow quickly. While less common than melanoma, they can spread, making early identification crucial.
The most common form, basal cell carcinoma, is slow-growing and often goes unnoticed. It typically manifests as a sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and fails to heal. Sometimes, it can appear as a shiny bump or a scaly, reddish patch. This type of cancer is frequently misdiagnosed as eczema or psoriasis and commonly affects the ears, scalp, neck, and face.
While basal cell carcinoma is less deadly than melanoma, with fewer than 100 deaths per year in the UK, delayed treatment can make it more difficult to manage as it can burrow deeper into the skin. Treatments can include prescription creams, but early detection is key.
Preventative measures against skin cancer include protecting the skin from UV rays. A survey by Melanoma Focus revealed that one in nine British adults have deliberately burnt their skin, and one in three do not use sunscreen. The NHS advises using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, applying it generously every two hours, and seeking shade between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun is strongest. Dr. Kaye encourages individuals to consult their GP if they notice any persistent or non-healing blemishes.