# Everything That Happens During a Skin Check (So You'll Actually Book One)
Most men skip dermatologist visits because they don't understand what happens during a skin check. That avoidance costs lives. Melanoma kills roughly 7,000 Americans annually, with men accounting for the majority of deaths.
A standard skin check takes 10 to 15 minutes. The dermatologist examines every inch of your body, including areas you don't see regularly. This includes your scalp, ears, between your toes, and the soles of your feet. Melanoma appears anywhere skin exists.
During the examination, your dermatologist uses the ABCDE rule to assess moles and spots. A stands for asymmetry (one half doesn't match the other). B means border irregularity. C indicates color variation. D refers to diameter larger than a pencil eraser. E means evolving (changing size, shape, or color).
If your doctor finds a suspicious lesion, they may perform a biopsy. This involves removing a small tissue sample for lab analysis. Results typically come back within one to two weeks.
Prevention matters as much as detection. Your dermatologist will recommend sunscreen with at least SPF 30, applied daily. They advise reapplication every two hours when outdoors. UV protection extends beyond sunscreen. Protective clothing, hats, and avoiding peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) all reduce skin cancer risk.
Men with fair skin, numerous moles, or a family history of skin cancer should schedule annual checks. Those with a personal history of melanoma require more frequent monitoring, often every three to six months.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends monthly self-examinations at home using a mirror and the ABCDE rule. This habit catches changes