How Often Should I See a Dermatologist for Skin Checkups?

At Bella Dermatology, we understand that every patient’s skin is unique—and so are their needs when it comes to skin cancer screenings. The frequency of your skin checkups at our practice depends on several important factors:

• Personal and Family History of Skin Cancer: If you or a close family member has been diagnosed with skin cancer, especially melanoma, you may require more frequent screenings. Our dermatologists will review your medical history to determine the best schedule for you.

• Number and Type of Moles: Individuals with numerous moles, atypical moles, or large congenital moles are at higher risk for skin cancer. If this applies to you, our team may recommend more regular monitoring to ensure early detection and peace of mind.

• Skin Type and Sun Exposure: Those with fair skin, light-colored eyes, or a tendency to burn rather than tan, as well as people who spend significant time outdoors or have a history of severe sunburns, are at increased risk. At Bella Dermatology, we factor in your lifestyle and natural skin characteristics to create a personalized screening plan.

• Age and Immune System Health: The risk of skin cancer rises with age, and those with weakened immune systems—whether due to medical conditions or medications—may benefit from more vigilant skin checks. 

Ultimately, the best way to determine how often you should have a skin check at Bella Dermatology is to consult with one of our experienced dermatologists. We’ll assess your individual risk factors and tailor a screening schedule to support your lifelong skin health.

The frequency and necessity of your dermatology visits can vary significantly based on your age, skin type, and personal medical history. Our experienced providers are dedicated to helping you create the right care plan for your healthiest skin.

• Age Matters: As we age, our risk for skin conditions—including skin cancer, pre-cancerous lesions, and chronic sun damage—increases. For adults over 50, or for those with a history of significant sun exposure, Bella Dermatology recommends annual full-body skin exams. These comprehensive checks are essential for the early detection of skin cancers such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma—which are more common in older adults.

Younger patients may not need routine skin checks as often, especially if there’s no history of skin cancer. However, we encourage adolescents and young adults to schedule visits if they experience persistent acne, unusual moles, or have had severe sunburns. Children with eczema, birthmarks, or other skin conditions also benefit from our specialized pediatric dermatology services.

• Skin Type Considerations: Your skin type also plays a vital role in your dermatology care plan. Patients with fair skin, light eyes, and those who burn easily are at higher risk for skin cancer. If this sounds like you, more frequent skin exams may be advised. Individuals with numerous moles or a family history of melanoma should also be monitored closely, regardless of their age or skin tone.

While those with darker skin tones generally have a lower risk for many types of skin cancer, certain conditions—like pigmentary disorders and keloids—are more common. 

• Your Personalized Skin Care Plan: Ultimately, the frequency of your visits to Bella Dermatology should be tailored to your individual needs. Regular self-examinations and prompt attention to new or changing spots are important for everyone. Our team is here to provide guidance and assessments based on your age, skin type, family history, and specific concerns.

During your annual visit, our skilled dermatology team carefully examines your skin. This thorough screening process can help identify many types of skin cancer—including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma—often before they become advanced or spread.

However, it’s important to remember that skin cancers can develop or change rapidly in the months between annual appointments. Some aggressive forms, like certain melanomas, can progress within a single year. That’s why we encourage all our patients to perform regular self-examinations between professional skin checks. By becoming familiar with your skin and monitoring for new or changing spots, you can alert our team promptly if something unusual appears, rather than waiting for your next scheduled exam.

If you have higher risk factors—such as a family or personal history of skin cancer, fair complexion, numerous moles, or significant sun exposure or tanning bed use—the dermatologists may recommend more frequent skin checks. In these cases, biannual or even quarterly visits can provide closer, proactive monitoring for your peace of mind.

If you notice any new growths, sores that do not heal, or spots that bleed, itch, or change in color, size, or shape, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our dermatology experts as soon as possible.

This is especially important for moles that appear asymmetrical, have irregular borders, display multiple colors, or are changing in appearance—these can be warning signs of melanoma and other skin cancers. Additional concerns that warrant prompt evaluation at Bella Dermatology include the sudden appearance of numerous moles, persistent rashes, unexplained or severe itching, and skin pain.

Don’t ignore rapid hair loss or significant changes in your nails, such as discoloration, thickening, or detachment. Blisters, open sores, or any signs of skin infection (like redness, warmth, swelling, or pus) also deserve immediate attention.

At Bella Dermatology, we believe that routine skin checkups are fundamental to maintaining not just beautiful skin, but your overall health and well-being. Regular dermatological exams are the best way to catch problems like melanoma and other types of skin cancer early—when they’re most treatable—and to prevent a wide range of other skin conditions.

Dr. Terry Sharpe, our board-certified dermatologist, is committed to making your skin check both simple and stress-free. The skin check itself is thorough but gentle. Dr. Sharpe examines your skin from head to toe, carefully looking for any moles, spots, or growths that might be unusual. The process is non-invasive and usually takes just a short time. If Dr. Sharpe finds anything that could be concerning, she’ll discuss the best next steps with you.

Patient education is at the heart of every visit to Bella Dermatology. Dr. Sharpe makes sure you understand what changes to look out for between checkups, such as new or evolving moles, and provides expert advice on sun protection and skin care. You’ll leave each appointment feeling informed and empowered, with a clear understanding of what’s normal for your skin and when you should seek further evaluation.

At Bella Dermatology, our routine skin checkups are designed to fit easily into your schedule and your life. We focus on your comfort and peace of mind, ensuring that caring for your skin is both effective and convenient. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2340 Patrick Henry Parkway Suite 150, McDonough, GA 30253. We serve patients from McDonough GA, Flippen GA, Stockbridge GA, Lovejoy GA, Hampton GA, Locust Grove GA, and surrounding cities.