Skin cancer, in simple terms, refers to the resultant tumors when the skin cells start growing abnormally. One of the most common causes of skin cancer is UV radiation. People who are very fair are prone to this condition as compares to those with darker skin and hence have to get themselves skin checked by a professional at least once a year. There are different types of skin cancer listed based on where the tumors begin to appear. Given below is more about the same.

The different types of skin cancer

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
  On the list of the different types of skin cancer, this is one of the most common types. Basal cells produce new skin cells as the old ones die. Did you know that more than 1 million cases of BCC are diagnosed every year in the United States alone? This type of cancer appears as a flesh-colored growth, bump or patch on the skin and this, when left untreated, grows deeper into the skin. Thankfully, BCC can be easily cured if it is detected early. Some of the common causes of the condition are constant exposure to harsh sunlight and frequent tanning sessions.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
  This type of cancer is considered the second most common type of cancer. The USA records almost a million cancer patients every year of this type and out of these, about 15,000 people die annually. This cancer is observed as a bump or a scaly patch on the skin. Another sign of this form of cancer is sores that keep healing and reappearing. Out of the different types of skin cancer, SCC is a type that can develop from actinic keratoses spots and patches too. Sunburns, a weakened immune system, and the frequent use of tanning beds are causes of SCC.
• Melanoma
  Due to its tendency to spread very easily to the internal organs, this type of skin cancer is considered the most serious one amongst the different types of skin cancer. People who are diagnosed with melanoma have reported spotting a sudden black patch or spot on their skin. This cancer is known to cause more than 75% of all skin cancer deaths. The main causes noted are excessive exposure to UV radiation, genetics, and the use of tanning beds and lamps.
• Other rare types
  While the different types of skin cancer mentioned above are the most common, there can also be other types of skin cancer such as sebaceous carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and dermatofibrosarcoma. The sebaceous carcinoma is an aggressive but rare condition that usually starts in the eyelids. Merkel cell carcinoma is also rare and develops in patients more than 50 years of age. Dermatofibrosarcoma begins in the middle layer and spreads to the other parts of the skin.

It is essential to make a note of all the different types of skin cancer and their causes mentioned here. Using sunscreen and protective accessories such as hats and gloves can keep you safe from the harmful UV radiation of the sun, thereby reducing your chances of developing this condition.