Skin cancer is the abnormal, uncontrolled growth of skin cells, most often on skin exposed to ultraviolet radiation from the sun over many years. It is the most common cancer of any kind, with millions of people diagnosed annually. Three types account for nearly all cases. Basal cell carcinoma is the most frequent and grows slowly. Squamous cell carcinoma is second and has a greater tendency to invade deeper tissue and spread. Melanoma accounts for about one percent of cases but causes the majority of skin cancer deaths, making the timing of detection particularly important. Care at the Financial District office spans examination and dermoscopy, biopsy, microscopic diagnosis, removal by Mohs micrographic surgery or standard excision, and reconstruction of the resulting defect. Dr. Julia Tzu completed fellowship training in procedural dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania and in dermatopathology at NYU Langone. She is board certified in both Mohs surgery and dermatopathology, placing the surgery and microscopic reading of tissue within one physician's certifications.
6 min read · Last updated: 2026-02-08 · Reviewed by Dr. Julia Tzu , MD, FAAD, FACMS
At a Glance
- Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, with millions of cases diagnosed each year [1]
- Melanoma is much less common than other types but is responsible for most skin cancer deaths [1]
- An estimated 3.6 million basal cell carcinoma cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year [4]
- Early-stage melanoma has a 99% five-year survival rate when detected and treated promptly [2]
What are the symptoms of Skin Cancer?
- New growth or spot that changes in size, shape, or color
- A sore that does not heal or heals and returns
- Pearly or waxy bump on face, ears, or neck
- Flat, flesh-colored, pink, or brown scar-like lesion
- Red, firm nodule on sun-exposed areas
- Scaly, crusted growth
- Mole that changes in appearance (ABCDE warning signs)
- Dark streak under fingernail or toenail
When should you seek care for Skin Cancer?
- Any new growth on the skin that concerns you
- A sore still open after a few weeks
- A mole changing in asymmetry, border, color, diameter, or in any other way
- Bleeding or crusting on the skin with no explanation
- A spot that looks different from everything else on your skin
- A dark streak appearing under a fingernail or toenail
- A personal history of skin cancer, which raises the odds of another and warrants scheduled full-body examinations
- A skin cancer returning at a site treated previously, because recurrent tumors need a different surgical approach from new ones
Have questions about skin cancer? Our team is here to help.
What causes Skin Cancer?
- DNA damage to skin cells from UV radiation
- Cumulative sun exposure over years
- Indoor tanning and tanning bed use
- Severe sunburns, especially during childhood
- Genetic mutations affecting cell growth
- Exposure to certain chemicals or radiation
How is Skin Cancer treated?
We offer a service to help manage this condition: Mohs Surgery .
Prognosis
- Basal cell carcinoma has excellent prognosis when treated early
- Squamous cell carcinoma detected early has a 99% five-year survival rate
- Melanoma detected early has a 99% five-year survival rate
- Advanced squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma survival rates decrease significantly, with lower survival rates for melanoma
- Regular follow-up is important as skin cancer can recur and probability of new skin cancer is increased once diagnosed with one skin cancer
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & References
This article draws from 5 peer-reviewed sources.
Medical Institutions
- [3] Mayo Clinic – Skin Cancer Symptoms and Causes
- [5] Cleveland Clinic – Skin Cancer
Educational & General
- [1] NCI – Skin Cancer (Including Melanoma)
- [2] AAD – Types of Skin Cancer
- [4] Skin Cancer Foundation – Basal Cell Carcinoma
Medically reviewed by Dr. Julia Tzu , MD, FAAD, FACMS · Last reviewed: 2026-08-31
Medical Dermatology | Cosmetic Dermatology | Mohs Surgery
World-Class Cosmetic & Surgical Dermatologist in NYC
Julia Tzu, MD, FAAD, FACMS — Financial District, New York
Frequently asked questions
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells, usually associated with DNA damage from ultraviolet radiation. The three main types are basal cell carcinoma, the most common; squamous cell carcinoma; and melanoma, the most dangerous. Early detection and treatment lead to excellent outcomes for most skin cancers.
What are the warning signs of skin cancer?
Warning signs include a new growth that changes in size or shape, a sore that does not heal, a mole that changes in appearance, a pearly or waxy bump, a flat scaly patch, or a red, firm nodule. For melanoma, the ABCDE rule refers to Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6 mm, and Evolving changes.
When should I see a dermatologist about a skin spot?
See a dermatologist if you notice a new growth that concerns you, a sore that does not heal within a few weeks, a change in an existing mole, or a spot that looks different from the others on your skin. Early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes, especially for melanoma.
How is skin cancer treated?
Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer. Options include Mohs micrographic surgery, surgical excision, cryotherapy, radiation therapy, and topical treatment for superficial cancers. Mohs surgery has the highest cure rate for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Advanced melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma may require additional treatment, including immunotherapy. A clinical evaluation can determine the appropriate approach.
What is Mohs surgery, and when is it the right choice?
Mohs micrographic surgery removes skin cancer in thin layers. Each layer is examined under a microscope during the same appointment before the next is taken, and the surgeon stops at the first layer with no remaining cancer cells. This confirms complete removal before the patient leaves, spares more healthy tissue than standard excision, and preserves the maximum amount of healthy tissue. Cure rates run up to 99 percent for new skin cancers and 94 percent for recurrent ones, including up to 99 percent for certain cancers. Mohs is the technique of choice on the face, neck, ears, and hands, where preserving tissue matters most, and it is especially valuable for cancers on the face and other sensitive areas. Dr. Tzu is fellowship-trained and board certified in Mohs surgery.
What happens to the wound after skin cancer is removed?
Removing the cancer leaves a defect that requires closure, and the method of closure governs the final appearance. The reconstructive plan depends on the size and location of the defect and on how tissue moves in that part of the face or body. Dr. Tzu completed a fellowship in procedural dermatology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and plans each closure to restore both function and form.
How is a suspicious spot diagnosed?
By biopsy. Under local anesthesia, the involved tissue is removed using a punch, shave, or excisional technique and sent for microscopic examination. The report identifies the tumor type, which determines what follows. Dr. Tzu is board certified in dermatopathology, the subspecialty devoted to microscopic examination of skin tissue.
Is skin cancer treatment covered by insurance?
Skin cancer care is medical dermatology. Cigna, Aetna, and Empire BCBS plans are accepted for medical care at Wall Street Dermatology, with some plan-type exclusions. Cosmetic procedures are separate and paid out of pocket. Some plans require a referral, so it is worth confirming the requirements before the appointment.
How can I reduce my risk of skin cancer?
Risk-reduction measures include avoiding sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, avoiding tanning beds, and performing monthly skin self-examinations. Annual skin checks by a dermatologist are recommended, especially for people at higher risk.
How often should someone be screened for skin cancer?
For someone with no history of skin cancer and no unusual moles, an annual skin check is a reasonable default. Anyone who has already had skin cancer, has many atypical moles, has a family history of melanoma, or has had significant sun exposure or indoor tanning generally needs more frequent examinations. The interval is set at the examination.
Ready to get started?
Call (212) 931-0538 to book with Dr. Julia Tzu at our Financial District office.