Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

What is Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer?

Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common form of skin cancer and often develops in areas that receive frequent sun exposure—such as the face, ears, neck, arms, and hands. Over time, UV radiation damages skin cells, causing them to grow abnormally and form cancerous lesions.

Spending significant time outdoors increases your exposure to the sun. This is why any new, changing, or persistent spot on your skin should be evaluated by a dermatologist or skin cancer specialist, especially if you are at higher risk.

The two primary types of non-melanoma skin cancer are:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Both types typically grow slowly and are highly treatable—particularly when diagnosed early. Many patients with non-melanoma skin cancer in Dallas see excellent results with our external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) treatments, offering strong outcomes with minimal disruption to daily life.

CLEAR Skin Cancer Treatments Effectively Target Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers

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Basal Cell Skin Cancer vs Squamous Cell Skin Cancer

Basal Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer

  • Most Common Type: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequently diagnosed form of skin cancer, making up roughly 80% of all non-melanoma cases.
  • Slow Growing: BCC typically develops gradually and rarely spreads (metastasizes) to other parts of the body, making early treatment highly effective.
  • Sun-Exposed Areas: This type of skin cancer usually appears on skin that receives the most sun, such as the face, ears, neck, and scalp.
  • Recognizable Appearance: BCC may present as a shiny bump, pearly or skin-colored nodule, pink or reddish patch, or a sore that doesn’t heal properly.
  • High Cure Rate: When diagnosed early, Basal Cell Carcinoma has an excellent cure rate with a low risk of complications, especially when treated with effective modern therapies.

Squamous Cell Skin Cancer

  • Second Most Common: Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer, following basal cell carcinoma.

  • Faster Growing: SCC generally develops more quickly than BCC and, if not treated promptly, can occasionally spread to other areas of the body.

  • Related to Sun and Skin Damage: SCC frequently appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, lips, ears, and hands, but it can also develop on scars, chronic wounds, or areas of long-term inflammation.

  • Typical Appearance: This skin cancer may look like a rough, scaly patch, a red or irritated sore, or a wart-like bump that may crust, bleed, or fail to heal.

  • Highly Treatable: When detected early, Squamous Cell Carcinoma has excellent treatment success rates, making timely evaluation and care essential to prevent spread or deeper tissue involvement.