The two most common kinds of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Fortunately, it grows very slowly and seldom spreads to other parts of the body. Squamous cell carcinoma also grows relatively slowly, and even though it rarely spreads elsewhere, it does so more often than basal cell tumors. Both types, however, need to be detected and treated early, because they can grow, invade and destroy nearby tissues. The most common warning sign of these skin cancers is a change on the skin, especially a new growth or a sore that doesn't heal.
Skin cancer has many different appearances.
For example, it may start as a small, smooth, shiny, pale or waxy lump. Or, the cancer can appear as a firm red lump. Skin cancers can also start as a flat, red spot that is rough, dry or scaly. Pain in NOT a sign of skin cancer. Both basal and squamous cell cancers are found mainly on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun - the head, face, neck, hands and arms.