SCC usually appears on parts of the body most frequently exposed to the sun, such as head, hands and lower legs, but it can occur anywhere on the skin. It can form metastases, particularly those on the face, ears and scalp. Although superficial sub-types of SCC can be treated by cryotherapy or cautery, the majority need excision, generally with a slightly wider margin than that needed for BCC.SCC tends to grow quickly over several weeks or months.

Although melanoma is a less common type of skin cancer, it is considered the most serious because it grows quickly and is more likely to spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain and bones, especially if not found early. The earlier melanoma is found, the more successful treatment is likely to be.

BCCs can range in appearance from a small reddish rash to a pearly pink lump. They can also be pigmented (dark), resemble a sore that doesn’t heal, or even look like a scar. They generally don’t metastasise (break off and form distant tumours or secondaries) and are easily treated, especially if found early. Treatment can range from cryotherapy (freezing) for superficial types, through to excision (surgery) for deeper tumours. Some superficial sub-types may respond to a topical cream.