Skin cancer is a growth of cells that starts in the skin. It most often occurs on sun-exposed skin. The most common types include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.

Symptoms vary depending on the type of skin cancer. Symptoms can include a new growth or bump on the skin or a sore that won't heal. Skin cancer happens most often on skin exposed to the sun, but it can happen anywhere on the body.

Checking the skin for suspicious changes can help detect skin cancer early. This gives the best chance for successful treatment.