Sunspots vs. Skin Cancer: Similarities and Differences

While sunspots and skin cancer share some symptoms, they are different conditions. Sunspots are usually harmless, while skin cancer requires immediate treatment to keep it from progressing. 

There Are Different Types of Skin Cancer

Unlike sunspots, there are different types of skin cancer, each with its own signs and symptoms. The types also have different prognoses (outlooks) and growth rates.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer, followed by squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma is less common and more serious because it grows and spreads quickly. 

The Treatment Plans Differ

Skin cancer treatment options vary depending on the type of cancer and how advanced it is. These options may include:

Sunspots are usually considered harmless and don’t require treatment. Some people may choose to treat sunspots for cosmetic reasons. Treatment options may include:

• Laser treatment
• Chemical peel
• Cryosurgery
• Bleaching cream 
• Microdermabrasion 

The Prognosis Is Different

Sunspots are usually harmless, but it’s important to see your healthcare provider if you notice the spot changing in size, color, or shape. This could be a sign of skin cancer.

See your provider right away if you notice possible signs of skin cancer, including a changing mole or a sore that does not heal. Certain skin cancers, including melanoma, can spread quickly. The prognosis significantly decreases once cancer spreads to other areas of the body. 

Sunspots and skin cancer often form due to skin damage caused by the sun’s UV rays. They usually appear in the same areas, and the diagnostic process is similar. It’s also possible to lower your risk of both conditions.

The Locations Are Often Similar

Exposure to the sun is a strong risk factor for both sunspots and skin cancer, and both conditions usually develop on areas of the skin that receive the most sunlight. These may include:

• Face and lips
• Ears
• Neck
• Shoulders
• Arms
• Back of hands
• Top of feet 

Melanoma can also occur in other areas, such as under the nails or on internal organs. Ocular melanoma occurs inside the eye, and mucosal melanoma forms inside the nose, mouth, and genitals.

The Diagnostic Process Is the Same

To diagnose a sunspot or skin cancer lesion, a healthcare provider will likely examine your skin closely and ask questions about your symptoms. They may ask how long you’ve had the spot, if it bleeds or oozes, and if it causes pain or itchiness.

If your healthcare provider suspects skin cancer, they will likely recommend a skin biopsy, where they take a sample of the affected area and send it to the lab to look for cancer cells. 

They Are Both Preventable

Many cases of sunspots and skin cancer are preventable with sun protection measures. Not every case of skin cancer is preventable, but it is possible to lower your risk significantly. The following precautions may help protect your skin from UV damage:

• Wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when spending time outdoors
• Wear lightweight pants and long-sleeve shirts
• Stay in the shade during the hottest times of day
• Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps

It is possible to have sunspots and skin cancer at the same time, even in the same area. Research suggests that people with sunspots may be at higher risk of skin cancer because they are a sign of skin damage from the sun, and cell damage may lead to cancer. 

If you are concerned about any skin changes, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. A primary care provider will likely refer you to a dermatologist, a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating skin conditions.

Consider making an appointment with a dermatologist if you notice any skin changes, such as new age spots, a changing mole, or a sore that doesn’t heal. Skin cancer is serious, and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Sunspots and skin cancer can have a similar appearance, and both typically occur in areas that receive frequent sun exposure, such as the face, shoulders, and hands.

Sunspots are usually harmless and don’t require treatment, while skin cancer is a serious condition that requires early diagnosis and treatment.