Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that is most common skin cancer. It usually grows slowly.  It appears on the skin areas that are most visible to the sun, such as the face, neck and arms. 

BCC develops in the basal cells (lower cells of the skin) that get damaged due to sun exposure over time. This damage can lead the skin to grow in an uncontrolled way that forms a cancerous spot.

BCC can harm the skin and tissues around it if it is left untreated. People with a history of BCC can develop it again, especially in the same spot.

Treatment of BCC is simple and effective if it is caught early. That's why an early detection of BCC is important to help prevent complications and scarring.

Causes and Warning Signs

Basal cell carcinoma is a slow-growing form of skin cancer that begins in the basal cells found in the outer layer of the skin. It is the most frequently diagnosed skin cancer worldwide. Although it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, untreated BCC can grow deeper into surrounding tissue and cause permanent damage.

Recognising risk factors and early signs is essential for care.

Why Does Basal Cell Carcinoma Develop?

Long-Term Sun Damage

Years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight is the primary driver of BCC. UV radiation alters skin cell DNA, allowing abnormal cells to multiply. This is why BCC most often appears on areas regularly exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, ears, neck, and arms.

Artificial UV Sources

Tanning beds and sun lamps produce high levels of UV radiation. Repeated use, especially at a young age, greatly increases the likelihood of developing basal cell carcinoma.

Natural Skin Characteristics

Individuals with light skin tones, freckles, light eyes, and blonde or red hair are more vulnerable, particularly if they burn easily and tan poorly.

Previous Skin Cancer

A history of any skin cancer, including BCC, SCC, or melanoma, raises the chance of developing another lesion in the future.

Age-Related Risk

Most BCC cases occur after the age of 50, as UV damage builds up over decades. However, younger adults are now being diagnosed more often due to sun exposure habits.

Reduced Immune Defence

People taking long-term immunosuppressive medication, transplant recipients, or those with immune disorders face a higher risk.

Past Radiation or Toxic Exposure

Radiation therapy and exposure to harmful chemicals such as arsenic have been linked to the development of BCC.

How Basal Cell Carcinoma May Appear

Basal cell carcinoma does not look the same in everyone and is often painless, making it easy to overlook.

Common signs include:

• A smooth, glossy bump that may appear pink, skin-toned, or translucent
• A sore that remains open for weeks or heals and reopens
• A slowly expanding flat patch with a rough or scaly surface
• A raised area with a rolled edge and fine visible blood vessels
• A pale, scar-like patch with unclear borders
• A spot that repeatedly bleeds, crusts, or oozes

Although these changes are more likely to appear on sun-exposed areas, BCC can occur anywhere on the body.

How DermPro Helps

DermPro is designed to support skin awareness by allowing users to monitor changes in their skin over time and recognise when a spot may require medical attention.

DermPro does not diagnose or treat skin cancer. It is intended to encourage early professional evaluation.