How Often Should You Get a Skin Cancer Screening?
Skin cancer remains the most common type of cancer in the United States, and Minnesota residents are no exception to the risk. Despite the state’s long winters and limited sun exposure for several months of the year, Minnesotans face a meaningful risk of developing skin cancer over their lifetimes. Regular skin cancer screenings with a board-certified dermatologist are one of the most effective ways to catch suspicious lesions early, when treatment outcomes are most favorable.
At Clarus Dermatology, we encourage all patients across the Twin Cities metro and greater Minnesota to make skin cancer screening a routine part of their healthcare. But how often should you actually schedule one? The answer depends on several individual factors.
General Guidelines for Skin Cancer Screenings
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that adults perform monthly self-examinations at home and schedule a full-body skin exam with a dermatologist at least once a year. For many people, an annual screening is sufficient to monitor changes in moles, freckles, and other skin features.
However, some patients benefit from more frequent screenings — every three to six months — based on their personal risk profile. Your dermatologist can help you determine the right interval after evaluating your skin during an initial visit.
Risk Factors That May Require More Frequent Screenings
Personal or Family History of Skin Cancer
If you have previously been diagnosed with melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma, your dermatologist will likely recommend screenings more often than once per year. A family history of skin cancer — particularly melanoma — also places you in a higher-risk category.
Fair Skin, Light Eyes, and Red or Blonde Hair
Individuals with lighter skin tones, blue or green eyes, and red or blonde hair produce less melanin, which provides natural protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This increases susceptibility to UV damage and skin cancer over time.
History of Sunburns or Tanning Bed Use
Even a single blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can significantly increase your lifetime risk of melanoma. Regular tanning bed use, which was common in Minnesota during the 1990s and early 2000s, is another major risk factor that many patients underestimate.
Large Number of Moles
Patients with more than 50 common moles or any atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) are at increased risk. These individuals benefit from more frequent monitoring and, in some cases, dermoscopic imaging to track changes over time.
Weakened Immune System
Organ transplant recipients, patients on immunosuppressive medications, and those with conditions that compromise immune function face a substantially higher risk of developing skin cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma.
Why Skin Cancer Screening Matters in Minnesota
Many Minnesotans assume that the state’s northern latitude and cold winters mean less UV exposure — and therefore less skin cancer risk. While it is true that UV intensity is lower during winter months, several factors work against this assumption.
Minnesotans often spend long hours outdoors during summer at the lake, on the golf course, or at outdoor festivals. The intensity of summer UV radiation in the Upper Midwest is significant. Snow reflection during winter can also amplify UV exposure for skiers, snowshoers, and ice fishing enthusiasts.
Additionally, many Minnesota residents grew up before widespread sunscreen awareness became the norm, accumulating decades of unprotected sun exposure. This cumulative damage adds up and can manifest as skin cancer later in life.
What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Screening
A professional skin cancer screening at Clarus Dermatology is straightforward and typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. During the exam, your dermatologist will carefully examine your skin from head to toe, looking for any moles, spots, or lesions that appear irregular in shape, color, size, or texture.
If a suspicious area is identified, your dermatologist may recommend a biopsy — a quick, in-office procedure where a small sample of skin is taken and sent to a lab for analysis. Early detection through biopsy can be lifesaving, as most skin cancers are highly treatable when caught in the initial stages.
How to Perform a Monthly Self-Exam
Between professional screenings, performing a monthly self-check at home is an important habit. Stand in front of a full-length mirror in a well-lit room and examine your entire body, including areas that are easy to overlook, such as the scalp, behind the ears, between the toes, and under the nails.
Use the ABCDE method to evaluate moles and spots:
- A — Asymmetry: One half does not match the other
- B — Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred
- C — Color: Multiple shades of brown, black, red, or blue
- D — Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- E — Evolving: The spot is changing in size, shape, or color
If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule an appointment promptly rather than waiting for your next routine screening.
Schedule Your Screening at Clarus Dermatology
Clarus Dermatology offers comprehensive skin cancer screening and surgical dermatology services at multiple convenient locations across Minnesota, including New Brighton, Maple Grove, Minnetonka, and beyond.
Whether you need a skin cancer screening in New Brighton, a skin cancer screening in Maple Grove, a skin cancer screening in Minneapolis, or a skin cancer screening in St. Cloud, our board-certified dermatologists are ready to help you stay ahead of skin cancer.
Call (612) 213-2370 or use the scheduler to book your screening today. Early detection saves lives, and a few minutes with your dermatologist each year can make all the difference.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a board-certified dermatologist for personalized recommendations regarding your skin cancer risk and screening schedule.
