A full body skin check is one of the most important preventive health screenings available. The exam takes about 10 to 15 minutes, requires no preparation, and can detect skin cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage.
Yet many people in San Francisco and the Bay Area delay scheduling a skin exam simply because they are unsure what happens during the appointment.
If you have never had a professional skin exam before, here is exactly what to expect during a full body skin check with a board-certified dermatologist in San Francisco.
What Is a Full Body Skin Check?
A full body skin check is a comprehensive skin cancer screening performed by a dermatologist. During the exam, your doctor carefully examines your skin from head to toe to identify any moles, lesions, or spots that could represent early skin cancer.
These exams help detect conditions such as:
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Melanoma
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Basal cell carcinoma
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Squamous cell carcinoma
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Precancerous lesions
Because skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, routine screenings are one of the most effective ways to catch problems early.
Before Your Skin Check Appointment
Preparing for a skin cancer screening is simple and requires very little effort.
If possible, remove nail polish from your fingers and toes, since melanoma can occasionally develop underneath the nails. It is also helpful to take note of any new, changing, or unusual moles or spots so you can point them out to your dermatologist.
Otherwise, there is nothing special you need to do. You do not need to shave, tan, or apply any special skincare products before your exam.
What Happens During a Full Body Skin Exam
At your appointment, you will change into a medical gown. Your dermatologist will then perform a systematic head-to-toe skin examination.
This includes areas that people often overlook, such as:
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The scalp (your dermatologist will gently part your hair)
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Behind the ears
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Between the fingers and toes
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The soles of the feet
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The back and other hard-to-see areas
Dermatologists often use a dermatoscope, a handheld magnifying device with specialized lighting, to closely evaluate any moles or lesions that need further inspection.
The exam is quick, professional, and painless. Dermatologists perform thousands of these screenings and are focused entirely on identifying anything that looks abnormal.
If you feel uncomfortable at any time, you can speak up. Some patients prefer to keep certain areas covered and simply point out specific areas of concern.
“I encourage patients to think of a skin check the same way they think about a dental cleaning — it’s routine preventive care that catches problems early. The exam itself is quick and painless.”
— Dr. Caren Campbell, MD, Dermatologist in San Francisco
What Happens If Your Dermatologist Finds Something Suspicious?
If your dermatologist identifies a mole or lesion that looks concerning, they may recommend a skin biopsy.
A biopsy involves numbing a small area of skin and removing a tiny sample so it can be examined under a microscope. The procedure takes only a few minutes, and the area usually heals within one to two weeks.
Biopsy results typically return within 7 to 10 days.
The reassuring news is that most biopsied spots are benign. However, biopsies help identify the few lesions that represent early skin cancer and require treatment.
How Often Should You Get a Skin Check?
For most adults, dermatologists recommend an annual skin cancer screening.
However, your dermatologist may recommend more frequent skin checks (such as every six months) if you have higher risk factors, including:
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A personal history of skin cancer
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A family history of melanoma
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Many moles
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A history of severe sunburns
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Fair skin or sun sensitivity
Between visits, performing monthly skin self-exams at home can help you detect new or changing spots early.
Schedule a Skin Check in San Francisco
If it has been more than a year since your last exam, it may be time to schedule a professional skin check.
Dr. Caren Campbell provides comprehensive full body skin checks in San Francisco, helping patients detect and treat skin cancer early.
A skin exam is:
✔ Quick
✔ Thorough
✔ One of the most important steps you can take for your skin health
Schedule your full body skin check today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Checks
How long does a skin check take?
Most full body skin exams take 10 to 15 minutes.
Do skin checks hurt?
No. A skin check is completely non-invasive and painless.
Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist in San Francisco?
Many dermatology practices allow direct booking for skin exams, though insurance plans may vary.
Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.