Understanding Different Types of Skin Cancer: Basal Cell, Squamous Cell, and Melanoma

Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer worldwide, yet it often remains underestimated in terms of seriousness. Understanding the different types of skin cancer—basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma—is essential for early detection, timely treatment, and ultimately saving lives. According to Dr Shaun Segal, knowledge about these cancers empowers individuals to protect themselves better and seek help when needed.

In this blog, we’ll break down the three major types of skin cancer, explore their warning signs, discuss risk factors, and highlight key prevention strategies, all through the expert perspective of Dr Shaun Segal.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It arises from the basal cells, which are located at the bottom of the epidermis (the outermost skin layer). Fortunately, BCC typically grows slowly and rarely spreads to distant parts of the body. However, if left untreated, it can cause significant local damage and disfigurement.

Dr Shaun Segal explains that BCC often develops on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, and scalp.

Signs and Symptoms:

• A pearly or waxy bump
  
  
• A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
  
  
• A bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns
  
  
• Visible blood vessels in or around a growth
  
  

BCC may look harmless at first glance, but ignoring it can lead to severe consequences. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for minimizing damage.

Also Read: Skin Cancer Risk Factors in 2025: Who’s More Vulnerable and Why

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It arises from squamous cells, which make up most of the epidermis. SCC is generally more aggressive than BCC and has a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body if not treated promptly.

According to Dr Shaun Segal, SCC is commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, lips, and backs of the hands, but it can also occur on other parts of the body, including inside the mouth or on the genitals.

Signs and Symptoms:

• A firm, red nodule
  
  
• A flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface
  
  
• An open sore that does not heal
  
  
• A wart-like growth that may bleed
  
  

SCC can develop from precancerous skin lesions known as actinic keratoses, which are rough, scaly patches caused by cumulative sun damage.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. It begins in the melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment (melanin) in the skin. Although it is less common than BCC and SCC, melanoma is much more likely to spread to other organs if not caught early.

Dr Shaun Segal emphasizes that melanoma can appear anywhere on the body, not just in sun-exposed areas. It can develop in an existing mole or arise as a new dark spot.

Recommended Reading: Early Signs of Skin Cancer: What Every Patient Should Watch Out For in 2025

Signs and Symptoms:

The ABCDE rule is a useful guide for recognizing melanoma:

• Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other half.
  
  
• Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
  
  
• Color: The color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
  
  
• Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can be smaller.
  
  
• Evolving: The mole changes in size, shape, color, or elevation over time.
  
  

Early-stage melanomas can often be cured with surgical removal, but advanced melanomas require more complex treatments like immunotherapy or targeted therapy.

Common Risk Factors

Understanding risk factors can help in assessing personal risk and taking preventive action. Dr Shaun Segal highlights several factors that increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer:

• Excessive Sun Exposure: Unprotected exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds significantly increases risk.
  
  
• Fair Skin: People with lighter skin tones are at greater risk due to lower melanin levels, which provide less natural protection.
  
  
• Family History: A family history of skin cancer raises the likelihood of developing it personally.
  
  
• Personal History: Having had skin cancer once increases the risk of recurrence.
  
  
• Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems are more vulnerable.
  
  
• Age: Older individuals are at higher risk, but skin cancer can occur at any age.
  
  

Also Read: Top 5 Skin Cancer Treatment Options in 2025: What Patients Need to Know

Prevention Strategies

While some risk factors like genetics cannot be changed, many preventive measures can greatly reduce the chances of developing skin cancer. Dr Shaun Segal recommends the following strategies:

• Use Sunscreen Daily: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
  
  
• Wear Protective Clothing: Hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses offer additional defense against UV rays.
  
  
• Seek Shade: Avoid direct sun exposure, especially during peak UV hours between 10 AM and 4 PM.
  
  
• Avoid Tanning Beds: Artificial UV light is just as harmful as natural sunlight.
  
  
• Perform Regular Skin Self-Exams: Familiarize yourself with your skin and monitor for any changes.
  
  
• Schedule Professional Skin Checks: Annual visits to a dermatologist like Dr Shaun Segal can catch skin cancers early, when they are most treatable.
  
  

Diagnosis and Treatment

When a suspicious lesion is found, the first step is usually a skin biopsy to determine if cancer cells are present. If cancer is confirmed, the treatment options vary depending on the type, size, location, and stage of the cancer.

Dr Shaun Segal outlines several common treatments:

• Surgical Excision: The tumor and a margin of surrounding healthy tissue are removed.
  
  
• Mohs Surgery: A highly precise technique where the cancer is removed layer by layer, examining each under a microscope until no abnormal cells remain.
  
  
• Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen, often used for precancerous growths.
  
  
• Radiation Therapy: Used in cases where surgery is not an option.
  
  
• Topical Medications: Certain creams can be used for very early-stage cancers.
  
  

For melanoma, additional treatments like immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or targeted drug therapies may be necessary if the cancer has spread beyond the skin.

The Importance of Early Detection

The prognosis for skin cancer heavily depends on how early it is caught. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma have very high cure rates when treated early. Melanoma, while more dangerous, also has an excellent survival rate if detected at an early stage.

Dr Shaun Segal stresses that waiting too long to seek medical evaluation for suspicious spots can drastically affect treatment options and outcomes. Regular vigilance and prompt action save lives.

Conclusion
Understanding the differences between basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma is essential for safeguarding your health. Thanks to the guidance of experts like Dr Shaun Segal, it is clear that prevention, early detection, and timely treatment are powerful weapons against skin cancer. By taking proactive steps to protect your skin and paying attention to any changes, you can dramatically lower your risk and ensure healthier skin for years to come.