How Often Should You Get a Skin Check in Brisbane?

Finding a new spot on your skin can leave you unsure whether to book an appointment or keep an eye on it. You do not need to work that out alone.

If you are wondering how often to get a skin check, the answer depends on your individual risk. Scheduled checks may be recommended for some people, while anyone with a new or changing spot should seek medical advice.

Does everyone need an annual skin check?

Australian guidance does not recommend regular screening skin checks for everyone at average or below-average risk. For people at higher risk, a GP can recommend an appropriate monitoring plan.

RACGP guidance recommends checks at least every 12 months for people at high risk. Some people at very high risk of melanoma need six-monthly full skin examinations supported by additional monitoring.

These recommendations concern scheduled checks when there are no new concerns. A changing mole should be assessed when you notice it, even if you have recently had your skin checked.

What increases your skin cancer risk?

Your GP considers more than your last beach holiday. Relevant factors include:

A personal history of skin cancer.
Melanoma in a close family member.
Many moles, particularly unusual ones.
Fair skin that burns easily.
Significant sun exposure or previous severe sunburn.
A weakened immune system.

Having no family history does not automatically mean low risk. People with darker skin can also develop skin cancer, so changes deserve attention regardless of skin tone.

When should you get a mole or spot checked?

Arrange a GP review if you notice:

A new spot or one that looks different from your other spots.
Changes in a mole’s size, shape, colour or texture.
A sore that does not heal.
A spot that repeatedly bleeds, crusts or becomes itchy.

These changes do not necessarily mean cancer, but they warrant assessment. You do not need to decide whether a spot looks “serious enough” before asking a doctor.

How can you check your skin at home?

Get familiar with what is usual for your skin. In good lighting, use a full-length mirror and a handheld mirror to look over your body, including areas normally covered by clothing.

Ask someone you trust to help check places you cannot easily see, such as your scalp, back and the back of your neck.

A self-check helps you notice changes; it cannot confirm a diagnosis. If something has changed, seek a medical assessment rather than relying on a phone app to tell you whether it is harmless.

What happens during a GP skin check?

Your doctor will ask about your concerns, previous skin cancers, family history and sun exposure. Point out any spots you have noticed, including ones that occasionally bleed or seem to heal and return.

For a full skin examination, you may be asked to undress to your underwear. Your doctor should explain the examination and obtain your consent. You can ask questions or raise concerns about your comfort at any point.

Depending on the findings, the next step may involve monitoring, arranging a biopsy, discussing treatment or referring you to a specialist. A biopsy means taking a tissue sample for laboratory testing.

Before leaving, ask what changes to watch for and whether a follow-up check is recommended.

Skin checks at Next Practice Newstead

At Next Practice Newstead, Dr Wesley Chan is a GP with a special interest in skin checks, skin cancer medicine and surgery. A consultation provides an opportunity to discuss a concerning spot and understand what ongoing monitoring may be appropriate for you.

Our practice is located at 520 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley, welcoming patients from Newstead, Teneriffe, New Farm and surrounding Brisbane suburbs.

If you have noticed a new or changing spot, or would like advice about your individual risk, book a skin-check consultation with Dr Wesley Chan or call our team on (07) 3518 7880.