Written by Dr Randal Johnson, GP with special interest in skin cancer

Skin cancer remains one of the most common yet preventable forms of cancer in Australia. Early detection through regular skin checks is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes. At Sunstate Family Practice, we offer a comprehensive Sunstate Skin Check designed to thoroughly examine your skin from head to toe using advanced diagnostic tools.

What Does a Sunstate Skin Check Involve?

A Sunstate Skin Check involves a meticulous examination of your entire skin surface, including areas that are often overlooked. This is conducted by our experienced general practitioners who have a special interest in skin cancer. The examination uses a dermatoscope, a specialised magnification device equipped with polarising filters that enables the doctor to view subtle changes both on and beneath the surface of your skin.

The dermatoscope enhances the visibility of moles, freckles, and other lesions, helping detect early signs of skin cancer such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. This tool is essential because some dangerous lesions may not be visible to the naked eye or may appear similar to benign spots.

Preparing for Your Skin Check Appointment

To ensure an accurate and effective skin examination, there are some important preparations you should make before your appointment:

• Avoid makeup and sunscreen: Please attend your appointment without any makeup, sunscreen, or moisturisers so that your doctor can clearly see your natural skin condition.
• Wear appropriate clothing: You will be asked to remove all clothing except your underwear during the exam. Wearing easily removable clothes can help make this process more comfortable and efficient.
• Be ready to discuss your health history: Your doctor will begin by taking a detailed history to understand factors that might increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

Risk Factors Discussed During Your Skin Check

During the consultation, your doctor will ask about various risk factors including:

• Sun exposure: Both occupational (work-related) and recreational sun exposure significantly increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.
• Use of solariums or tanning beds: These artificial sources of UV radiation are known contributors to skin cancer development.
• Family history: A family history of melanoma or other skin cancers can raise your personal risk level.
• Previous skin cancers or suspicious lesions: If you have had treatment or removal of skin cancers before, this information is vital for ongoing monitoring.

What Happens During the Examination?

Once prepared, you will be asked to sit on the edge of the examination table while the doctor conducts a full-body scan using the dermatoscope. The doctor will carefully inspect all exposed areas of skin, paying particular attention to any spots or lesions that appear unusual or have changed over time.

You should inform your doctor if you have noticed any new, changing, or suspicious spots anywhere on your body—even in areas not routinely examined such as under bras or underwear. While these sites are not always part of the standard check due to privacy reasons, they can still develop serious conditions like melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Documentation and Follow-Up Care

With your consent, photographs may be taken of certain lesions for documentation purposes. These images allow for precise monitoring over time and help detect any changes early. Your doctor will discuss all findings with you at the end of the appointment and recommend a personalised management plan.

Management options could include:

• Regular observation with follow-up checks
• Medical treatments such as topical therapies
• Surgical removal if necessary

Your doctor will also advise when you should schedule your next skin check based on your individual risk profile.

Why Choose Sunstate Family Practice for Your Skin Check?

At Sunstate Family Practice, we prioritise patient comfort alongside clinical excellence. Our doctors are highly trained in identifying early signs of skin cancer and use state-of-the-art equipment to provide the most accurate diagnosis possible.

Regular full skin checks are an important part of skin cancer detection and management and may save your life. Your doctor will discuss with you how frequently you should have your skin checked.

Book Your Sunstate Skin Check Today

Taking charge of your skin health has never been easier. To book a professional skin check with one of our experienced doctors at Sunstate Family Practice:

• Book online via HotDoc for convenient appointment scheduling
• Call us directly at 07 3207 7744

Don’t wait until you notice changes—regular screening is key to maintaining healthy skin and preventing serious complications from skin cancer.