Skin cancer is caused by the growth of cancer cells in the skin. There are different types of skin cancer depending on various reasons. It is well-known that not all scars of skin cancer look alike. Skin is made of different cells and layers, the severity, and type of skin cancer depends on the depth of infection. Let’s have a look at the common types of skin cancer:

1. Actinic keratosis
These are rough scaly patches or rough skin mostly developed in fair-skinned people and rarely in dark-skinned people due to excessive exposure to sunlight. These patches or rough skin are considered precancerous and tend to develop into dangerous cancerous symptoms. This infection commonly affects the body parts that are constantly exposed to the sun like head, neck, arms, and nose. It is commonly seen in individuals above 40 years who have been constantly exposed to the sun for many years. Consultation of dermatologists is highly recommended when skin allergies do not heal sooner.

2. Basal cell carcinoma
It is the most common among the different types of skin cancer and the least dangerous. The cancer cells grow on the deepest layer of the epidermis called the basal cell layer. These cancer cells grow very slowly and are difficult to be identified as it looks and feels normal until the infection has spread massively. This cancer is rarely known to affect other parts of the body, however, it gradually moves to nearby tissues and bones if left untreated for too long. It commonly occurs in fair-skinned people exposed to the sun constantly. It is also rarely found in dark-skinned people who are constantly exposed to the sun. In Basal Cell Carcinoma there are more chances of recurrence in the same spot or at a different spot.

3. Squamous cell carcinoma
It is known as the second most common type of skin cancer. It mostly occurs in body parts that are constantly exposed to sunlight and damaged by UV rays. It is more prone to fair-skinned people when compared to dark-skinned people. It usually starts as a dry scaly patch, red bump or a sore skin that opens up after healing. This type of cancer tends to spread to nearby tissues, bones and lymph nodes which makes it difficult to be cured. The speed of its growth is very slow and hence it can be treated easily once identified at an early stage.

4. Melanoma
These are considered to be the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It is caused by the infection in the cells called melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells responsible for providing melanin that protects our skin from damage caused by sunlight and UV rays. Treatment for melanoma can be easier when diagnosed at an early stage and this can increase the survival rate. This cancer can rapidly spread to various parts of the body which is life-threatening. It usually starts by developing a small mole or a dark spot and grows in size rapidly. This is more prone to light-skinned people and adults above the age of 50 with a weak immune system.