Top 6 tips to prepare for your skin check

Did you neglect your skin health during the coronavirus pandemic? It's really important to catch up on all your general health check-ups, especially when it comes to conditions that won’t wait, such as Australia’s most common cancer: skin cancer.3

You don’t have to put your skin cancer check on hold and you certainly shouldn’t put off reaching out about a suspicious spot on your skin. If left untreated, skin cancer can spread and leave you with severe scarring or disfigurement and even become lethal.

When you book in with a doctor to have your concerns addressed – now or in the future – there are a few things you can do to make the appointment easier for both yourself and the doctor.

1. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes than can be easily slipped on and off.
2. To help your doctor examine your skin better, please don’t wear makeup, lipstick or nail polish to your consultation.
3. If you have noticed a spot on your scalp (beneath your hair), please localise it so it’s easier for the doctor to find during your skin check.
4. Genitals are not routinely checked, so please monitor this area carefully at home and let the doctor know if there is anything under your underwear that concerns you.
5. Ensure your medical history is up to date including any medications you take and any current or previous health issues and allergies.
6. Write down any questions or concerns you have for your doctor ahead of time so all your concerns are addressed.

You can download our handy guide to preparing for your skin check here