What is a Total Body Skin Exam?

Once you get into adulthood, it is a wise decision to have frequent, regular total body skin examinations. These are a bit different from brief examinations in which a few localized spots are observed. Instead, a total body skin exam allows a dermatologist to inspect every square inch of your skin from your scalp to the spaces between your toes.

Which Areas Will Be Examined?

Skin cancer can begin anywhere; therefore, it is important that all skin sections of the body are observed. Such areas, like the spaces between your toes and fingers, are also important to examine because they too are susceptible to cancers and other skin conditions. The practitioner will look systematically over your body from top to bottom, keeping areas covered as needed.

How is the Examination Done?

The examination is performed in the comfort of our office. The dermatologist will perform a thorough sweep using a handheld dermatoscope to see your skin more clearly.

How Long Will the Examination Last?

A typical total body skin exam may last a half hour or less. In fact, depending on whether or not the dermatologist finds any concerning skin lesions, the check may take just minutes.

What are the Benefits of the Examination?

There are many parts of your body that are difficult for you to see yourself, such as your back and your scalp. Plus, you do not have the training that our dermatologist does to recognize and diagnose any concerning lesions or rashes. Not only can our dermatologist answer any concerns you may have, but any concerning lesions that are currently cancerous or that could turn into cancer someday can be treated or removed as well.

What Will Happen if Concerning Areas are Found?

If our dermatologist finds concerning lesions that could be cancerous, next steps can be recommended. The right treatment will depend on a number of factors.

If you’re concerned about any localized skin areas or want to have a precautionary total body skin exam, simply schedule a consultation at Pierre Skin Care Institute in Thousand Oaks. We provide cosmetic, medical and laser services to patients throughout the following areas: Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Camarillo, Ventura, Oxnard, Moorpark and Simi Valley. Contact us today to set up an appointment and get started!