SunSkin Clinic

 Introduction

Skin cancer — the abnormal growth of skin cells — remains one of the most prevalent forms of cancer worldwide. In Australia, where sunshine is abundant year-round, the risk of developing skin cancer is significantly higher. Among the many contributing factors, overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun stands as the leading cause of this life-altering condition. But what exactly happens to the skin under such exposure, and why does sunburn play such a critical role in triggering this disease?

In this blog, we’ll delve into the science behind skin cancer, the types of UV radiation, how sun damage leads to abnormal cell development, and ways to protect yourself.

Understanding the Causes of Skin Cancer — The Abnormal Growth of Skin Cells

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. Unlike healthy cells that grow and divide in an orderly fashion, cancer cells grow uncontrollably, forming tumours that can become malignant. These cancerous cells can eventually invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.

The most common forms of skin cancer include:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – the most common type, often appearing as a pearly bump.

  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – typically rough and scaly, often appearing on sun-exposed areas.

  • Melanoma – the deadliest form, originating in melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), and known for spreading quickly.

Each type of skin cancer can be influenced by the same key factor — UV exposure.

UV Radiation: The Invisible Culprit

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is an invisible form of energy emitted by the sun. There are three types of UV rays:

  • UVA – penetrates deep into the skin and contributes to ageing and DNA damage.

  • UVB – responsible for sunburns and direct DNA damage in skin cells.

  • UVC – absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and does not reach the surface.

Both UVA and UVB play a significant role in the development of skin cancer. When the skin is repeatedly exposed to these rays without protection, the risk of genetic mutation in skin cells increases drastically.

Understanding Skin Cancer: The Abnormal Growth of Skin Cells

How UV Radiation Causes Skin Cancer

The process begins when UV rays penetrate the skin and alter the DNA within skin cells. While the body can usually repair minor DNA damage, chronic exposure or intense episodes of sunburn overwhelm the repair mechanisms.

Over time, these unrepaired changes accumulate, causing mutations that lead to abnormal cell growth — which we know as skin cancer — the abnormal growth of skin cells.

Sunburn is more than just temporary pain or redness — it’s a clear sign of DNA damage. Blistering sunburns, especially in childhood, can double the risk of melanoma later in life.

Other Contributing Factors

While UV exposure is the most significant risk factor, several other elements can increase your susceptibility:

  • Fair Skin: Less melanin means less natural protection from UV rays.

  • Family History: Genetics play a role in how the body responds to sun exposure.

  • Frequent Sunburns: Repeated damage adds up.

  • Living Close to the Equator: Higher UV exposure year-round.

  • Tanning Beds: Artificial UV radiation is just as harmful as natural sunlight.

Recognising the Early Signs

Early detection saves lives. Knowing what to look for can help you seek treatment before the cancer progresses. Common signs include:

  • A new growth or sore that doesn’t heal.

  • A spot that changes in size, shape, or colour.

  • A mole that looks different from others (known as the “ugly duckling” sign).

  • Itchy, bleeding, or crusty skin lesions.

Regular skin checks by professionals, especially if you have multiple risk factors, are essential.

The Importance of UV Radiation Awareness for Skin Cancer Prevention

Prevention is Better than Cure

The good news is that most skin cancers are preventable. Here are key strategies:

  • Wear Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: At least SPF 30, reapplied every two hours.

  • Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Seek shade between 10 am and 4 pm.

  • Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses.

  • Avoid Tanning Beds: They emit concentrated UV rays.

  • Get Regular Skin Checks: Particularly important if you’ve had sunburns or a family history.

The Importance of Education and Awareness

Raising awareness about the risks of sun exposure is vital, especially in regions like Australia where the UV index is consistently high. Education around safe sun practices, early detection, and knowing the signs of skin cancer — the abnormal growth of skin cells can significantly reduce national incidence rates.

Advancements in Diagnosis and Treatment

Modern technologies such as digital dermoscopy and total body photography help doctors detect suspicious lesions early. In addition, treatments have advanced to include:

  • Cryotherapy

  • Topical chemotherapy

  • Surgical excision

  • Mohs surgery

  • Immunotherapy for advanced melanoma

The earlier a skin cancer is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment — often requiring less invasive procedures.

When to See a Skin Cancer Clinic

If you notice any changes in your skin or have a family history of skin cancer, it’s vital to consult a professional skin cancer clinic. Clinics are equipped with advanced tools and trained specialists to evaluate moles, lesions, and changes in the skin.

SunSkin Clinic, for example, offers full body checks, mole mapping, and tailored treatment plans across its two locations.

Conclusion

Understanding the primary cause of skin cancer — the abnormal growth of skin cells empowers you to take preventive steps and seek timely medical intervention. The connection between UV exposure, sunburn, and skin cancer is undeniable. With greater awareness and regular check-ups, the risk of developing skin cancer can be significantly reduced.

If you have concerns about sun damage, notice any new or changing spots, or simply want peace of mind, don’t wait.

📍 SunSkin Clinic Locations:

 Skin cancer — the abnormal growth of skin cells — is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia. With an increasing number of cases reported each year, it is more important than ever to be informed about the risks, the major types of skin cancer, and the available preventative measures and treatments.

At SunSkin Clinic, we are committed to promoting awareness and early detection through professional screening and advanced skin cancer management.

Understanding Skin Cancer: The Abnormal Growth of Skin Cells

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is the result of uncontrolled and abnormal growth of skin cells, typically caused by damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds. When the skin's DNA is damaged, these cells can begin to mutate, multiply, and form malignant tumours.

The Major Types of Skin Cancer

There are three major types of skin cancer, each arising from different types of skin cells:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

  • BCC is the most common but least aggressive form of skin cancer.

  • It originates in the basal cells located in the lower part of the epidermis.

  • Typically appears as a pearly or waxy bump, or flat, flesh-coloured lesion.

  • It rarely spreads (metastasises), but if left untreated, it can cause significant local damage.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

  • SCC arises from the squamous cells in the outer layer of the skin.

  • It often appears as a scaly red patch, open sore, or wart-like growth that may crust or bleed.

  • While more aggressive than BCC, SCC has a relatively low risk of spreading if treated early.

3. Melanoma

  • Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and develops from the pigment-producing melanocytes.

  • It can occur anywhere on the body, even in areas not commonly exposed to the sun.

  • Early detection is crucial as melanoma can spread rapidly to other parts of the body.

The Importance of UV Radiation Awareness for Skin Cancer Prevention

What Causes Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is primarily caused by UV radiation exposure, but several other factors can increase your risk:

  • Sunburns and repeated sun exposure without protection

  • Tanning beds and lamps

  • Fair skin, light hair and eyes (more susceptible to UV damage)

  • Family or personal history of skin cancer

  • Weakened immune system

  • Presence of moles or abnormal skin lesions
    Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Detecting skin cancer early can significantly improve outcomes. Here are some common warning signs:

  • Changes in an existing mole’s size, shape or colour

  • New growths or sores that do not heal

  • Spots that itch, bleed, or become scaly

  • Pigmented patches with irregular borders

  • Red, scaly, or crusted areas that persist over time

Use the ABCDE rule for mole evaluation:

  • A – Asymmetry

  • B – Border irregularity

  • C – Colour variation

  • D – Diameter over 6mm

  • E – Evolving shape, size or symptoms

How Is Skin Cancer Diagnosed?

Early diagnosis is the key to effective treatment. At SunSkin Clinic, we provide comprehensive skin checks and mole mapping to help identify any suspicious lesions. Our diagnosis process includes:

  • Visual skin examination using dermatoscopes

  • Digital total body photography for monitoring changes over time

  • Skin biopsies to confirm any diagnosis of cancer

Regular checks are advised, especially for those in high-risk groups.

Treatment Options for Skin Cancer

Once diagnosed, the course of treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer. Common treatment methods include:

1. Surgical Excision

  • The most common treatment for BCC, SCC, and early melanoma

  • Involves removing the tumour along with a margin of healthy skin

2. Mohs Micrographic Surgery

  • A precise surgical method for removing skin cancer with minimal healthy tissue loss

  • Especially effective for facial or high-risk cancers

3. Cryotherapy

  • Freezing the cancer cells with liquid nitrogen

  • Typically used for pre-cancerous lesions or very early skin cancers

4. Topical Treatments

  • Prescription creams like imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil may be used for superficial skin cancers

5. Radiation Therapy or Chemotherapy

  • Reserved for more advanced cases or when surgery is not feasible

Understanding the Importance of Skin Cancer Checks: A Comprehensive Guide

Prevention: Protecting Your Skin

Prevention is always better than cure. To reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:

  • Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, SPF 30 or higher

  • Avoid peak sun exposure (10am–4pm)

  • Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses

  • Seek shade when outdoors

  • Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps

  • Get regular skin checks, especially if you have risk factors

Why Early Detection Matters

Studies show that the survival rate for early-detected melanoma is over 95%, compared to far lower survival in advanced stages. Skin cancer — the abnormal growth of skin cells — can be effectively treated when caught early.

At SunSkin Clinic, we emphasise education, prevention, and early intervention through our expert skin cancer services.

Trust SunSkin Clinic for Expert Skin Care

Our team of skin cancer specialists is highly experienced in diagnosing and managing all major types of skin cancer. Whether you’re looking for a routine check-up or specialised treatment, we’re here to help.

We are conveniently located in:

📍 Keysborough – Call us at 03 9329 3300
📍 Box Hill – Call us at 03 8352 4200

🖥️ Book your appointment online at: https://sunskinclinic.com.au/appointments

Conclusion

Skin cancer — the abnormal growth of skin cells — is a serious yet largely preventable condition. Understanding the major types of skin cancer, recognising the warning signs, and committing to regular skin checks can save lives. With Australia having one of the highest skin cancer rates globally, awareness and early action are crucial.

Let SunSkin Clinic be your partner in skin health — because every check could make a difference.