According to Sun Smart, Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally, and it’s something that affects people of all ages. Given our climate and outdoor lifestyle, skin cancer remains a constant concern - and early detection makes a huge difference. According to the Cancer Council, most skin cancers can be successfully treated if caught early.
The tricky part? Early signs often don’t look alarming. A spot might resemble a pimple that just doesn’t go away, or a mole you’ve had for years might start to change without causing pain. That’s why being aware of the early visual signs is so important, it could be the thing that prompts you to book a check and catch it early.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin. According to the Cancer Council Australia, it most commonly develops as a result of DNA damage caused by UV radiation from the sun or solariums. While it often appears on areas that receive regular sun exposure - like the face, neck, and arms, it can also develop in areas that are rarely seen by the sun.
There are three main types of skin cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
The most common type of skin cancer in Australia. It usually grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. BCC often appears as a pearly bump or a scaly area that may bleed or crust over.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
This type is more likely to spread if left untreated. It often presents as a firm, red lump or a rough, scaly patch that may bleed easily. It tends to grow faster than BCC and is more common in older people.
Melanoma
The least common but most dangerous form of skin cancer. Melanoma develops in the skin’s pigment-producing cells and can spread quickly if not caught early. It may appear as a new mole or an existing mole that changes shape, colour, or size. According to Melanoma Institute Australia, early detection of melanoma leads to a 90% chance of successful treatment.
Each of these types looks different and behaves differently, which is why understanding what skin cancer looks like in its early stages is so important. Even small changes in the appearance of your skin could be worth checking.
Spotting skin cancer early: What to look out for
The earlier skin cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat and the better the outcome. According to the Cancer Council, early diagnosis often means simpler, less invasive treatment and a much higher chance of full recovery.
So, what does skin cancer look like in its early stages?
Here are some of the most common signs to keep an eye on:
- A small, new spot or mole that appears without explanation
- A sore, lump, or pimple that doesn’t heal
- A spot that bleeds, itches, or forms a crust
- Any change in an existing mole - especially one that follows the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter over 6mm, Evolving (any change in size, shape, or texture)
Sometimes early stage skin cancer may look like a pimple - but one that just won’t go away. If you notice anything unusual or persistent on your skin, it’s always worth having it checked by a GP or dermatologist. For more info, check out our article on Understanding Skin Cancer: Causes, Types and Prevention and visit the Cancer Councils website for comprehensive guidance on what to look out for.
Is that persistent pimple a cause for concern?
Not every pimple is just a pimple. While most breakouts clear up on their own, a spot that lingers could be worth a closer look.
According to the Cancer Council Australia, early-stage skin cancer can sometimes appear as a small lump or sore that doesn’t heal. Basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer, can look like a pearly pimple or shiny bump that bleeds, scabs, or crusts repeatedly. It may feel harder than a typical pimple and often doesn’t respond to acne treatments.
In rarer cases, Melanoma Institute Australia notes that nodular melanoma, one of the more aggressive forms of melanoma - can appear as a raised, firm lump that may look like a pimple or even a harmless mole at first glance.
If a bump hasn’t healed after several weeks, continues to bleed or feel tender, or just seems unusual for your skin, don’t ignore it. Early detection of skin cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and can often lead to simpler, less invasive options.
When in doubt, get it checked out!
Simple ways to safeguard your skin every day
When it comes to skin cancer, prevention is your first line of defence - and small daily habits can go a long way. As advised by The Cancer Council, the tips we should all be following include:
Make sunscreen part of your morning routine
Go for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and pop it on every day, even when it’s overcast. If you're spending time outside, remember to reapply every couple of hours.
Dress for sun protection
Lightweight long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses can give you that extra layer of defence, especially if you're out and about for longer stretches.
Time your outdoor activities right
The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10am and 3pm. If you can, plan your time outside for earlier or later in the day, or try to stick to shaded areas during the peak.
Check your skin regularly
Every few months, take a good look at your skin. Look for anything new, anything changing, or anything that just doesn’t feel right. Set a reminder on your phone so it becomes part of your regular health routine.
These small steps can make the world of difference, and your future self will thank you.
FAQs related to skin cancer
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions related to skin cancer.
What does the start of skin cancer look like?
It can be surprisingly easy to miss. Early stage skin cancer doesn’t always scream for attention - it might show up as a new spot, a mole that’s slightly different, or a scab that never seems to heal. Some people describe it as a pimple that just won’t go away. If something on your skin keeps changing, crusting, itching or bleeding, it’s worth getting it checked out.
How can you spot skin cancer early?
Start by getting to know your skin. Give yourself a once-over every couple of months, and don’t skip those hard-to-see spots like your back or scalp. Keep an eye out for any changes using the ABCDE method: Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter (bigger than 6mm), and Evolving. And don’t just rely on yourself, regular skin checks with your GP or dermatologist can pick up things you might miss.
How is skin cancer removed?
Most of the time, it’s pretty straightforward. Your doctor might remove the spot with a quick procedure under local anaesthetic. In some cases, they might freeze it off, apply a cream, or use a scraping technique called curettage. The approach depends on the type of skin cancer and where it is on your body. The sooner it’s caught, the simpler the treatment usually is.
What are the symptoms of skin cancer?
There’s no one-size-fits-all, but some of the most common signs include:
- A new spot or mole that looks different to the others
- A sore that keeps coming back or won’t heal
- A scaly, dry patch that doesn’t improve
- A spot that bleeds when you wash or bump it
- Something shiny, dark, or crusty that stands out from the rest of your skin
If something’s been hanging around for a few weeks and hasn’t improved, it’s time to book a check.
What can be mistaken for skin cancer?
Plenty of things - pimples, cysts, skin tags, eczema, even normal moles. That’s why skin cancer can be tricky to spot without a trained eye. If a spot seems off or doesn’t behave like the usual suspects, a professional opinion is the safest way to go.
How long can you have skin cancer without realising?
Some types grow really slowly and might sit unnoticed for months, even years. Others, like melanoma, can move fast. The earlier it’s found, the easier it is to treat, which is why keeping an eye on changes and booking regular skin checks is so important.
Do you feel sick when you have skin cancer?
Not usually, especially at the beginning. Most people don’t feel sick at all, it’s something you see on the skin, not something you feel in your body. If it’s left too long and starts to spread, it can affect your overall health, but that’s much less common when it’s caught early.
Is skin cancer raised or flat?
It can go either way. Some skin cancers are flat and patchy, while others are raised or have a bump to them. Melanomas often start flat but can become raised as they grow. The main thing to watch for is change - in shape, texture, colour, or how a spot feels. If it stands out from the rest of your skin, it’s worth getting checked.
Explore HIF's skin cancer screening support
Staying on top of your skin health starts with awareness, but it shouldn’t stop there. Regular skin checks are one of the most effective ways to detect early stage skin cancer before it becomes something more serious.
HIF supports proactive health decisions through our Healthy Lifestyle Extras Cover, which includes benefits for preventative services like skin cancer screenings and consultations. It’s one more way we help members take control of their health, before problems arise.
If it’s been a while since your last check, now’s the perfect time to book in. Your future self will thank you.
Please note: Kirsty's blog is general advice only. For further information on this topic please consult your healthcare professional