Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It is caused by the uncontrolled growth of basal cells, which are the cells that make up the outermost layer of skin. BCCs are most likely to develop on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and hands.
As beauty professionals and estheticians, it is crucial to recognize the signs of BCC and provide guidance to clients on prevention and seeking medical attention when necessary.
- Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma arises from the basal cells, which are located in the deepest layer of the epidermis. This type of skin cancer is often caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. BCC is slow-growing, and although it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can invade nearby tissues and cause disfigurement if not treated promptly.
- Characteristics of Basal Cell Carcinoma
BCC can present in various forms, including:
a. Light, pearly nodules: Small, shiny bumps that may be translucent or flesh-colored. b. Sores: Open sores that may bleed, crust over, and then reappear without healing. c. Reddish patches: Flat or slightly raised, scaly, red patches, often on the chest or back. d. Smooth growth with an elevated border: A raised, rounded border surrounding a central indentation, which may resemble a scar.
- Practical Applications for Estheticians
a. Recognizing Signs of BCC: While estheticians are not medical professionals, it is essential to be familiar with the common characteristics of BCC. If you observe any suspicious lesions on a client’s skin, gently encourage them to seek medical attention for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
b. Sun Protection Education: Educate clients on the importance of sun protection to reduce their risk of developing BCC. Advise them to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, seek shade when possible, and avoid tanning beds. Additionally, recommend sun-protective clothing and hats for added protection.
c. Promoting Skin Self-Examination: Encourage clients to perform regular self-examinations of their skin to detect any changes or new growths. Early detection of BCC is crucial for effective treatment and minimizing complications.
d. Referral to Medical Professionals: If a client presents with a suspected BCC lesion, do not attempt to treat it yourself. Instead, refer them to a dermatologist or another medical professional for a proper evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment plan.
BCCs can appear in a variety of ways, but they often look like:
- A small, smooth, pink or flesh-colored bump
- A shiny, pearly nodule
- A scaly, red patch
- An open sore that does not heal
- A scar that does not fade
If you see any of these changes on the skin, it is important to refer the client to a doctor right away. BCCs are usually treatable, but they can be more difficult to treat if they are not caught early.
There are a number of things that beauty professionals and estheticians can do to help their clients prevent BCCs, including:
- Educating clients about the risks of skin cancer and the importance of sun protection
- Recommending sunscreen and other sun-protective products
- Performing skin checks for early detection of BCCs
If a client is diagnosed with BCC, beauty professionals and estheticians can help them to manage their treatment and recovery. This may include:
- Providing emotional support
- Helping clients to find a qualified dermatologist
- Arranging for transportation to and from medical appointments
- Assisting with wound care
- Providing follow-up care instructions
Three main cancers of the skin are squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and melanoma that melanoma is among most deadliest cancer. Diagnosis and treatment of all skin cancers are out of scope of practice of skin care or beauty specialist however as a skincare and beauty specialist you may be the first person to notice the changes on the skin and refer the client to a doctor. Here are differences between these three skin cancers:
- Squamous cell carcinoma:
- Arises from squamous cells
- Commonly appears on areas exposed to the sun
- Has a scaly, crusty or warty appearance
- Can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated
- Basal cell carcinoma:
- Arises from basal cells
- Commonly appears on areas exposed to the sun
- Has a pearly or waxy appearance with visible blood vessels
- Rarely spreads to other parts of the body
- Melanoma:
- Arises from melanocytes
- Can appear anywhere on the body, even areas not exposed to the sun
- Often has irregular borders and multiple colors
- Can spread quickly to other parts of the body and become life-threatening if left untreated.
| Feature | Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) | Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) | Melanoma |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type of skin cancer | Second most common type of skin cancer | Most common type of skin cancer | Third most common type of skin cancer |
| Where it occurs | Most common on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, neck, ears, and hands | Most common on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, ears, and back of the hands | Can occur anywhere on the body, but is most common on the trunk, head, and neck |
| Appearance | Can appear as scaly, red or pink papules or nodules. They may also appear as open sores or crusty areas. | Can appear as a small, smooth, pink or flesh-colored bump. It may also appear as a waxy, scar-like growth. | Can appear as a dark spot on the skin that is different from the surrounding skin. It may also appear as a mole that changes in size, shape, or color. |
| Risk factors | Sun exposure, immunosuppression, history of skin cancer | Sun exposure, family history of skin cancer, fair skin, light-colored hair, and blue or green eyes | Family history of melanoma, fair skin, light-colored hair, and blue or green eyes, large numbers of moles, atypical moles, history of sunburns, immunosuppression |
| Treatment | Surgical removal, radiation therapy, chemotherapy | Surgical removal, radiation therapy, topical medications | Surgical removal, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy |
| Prognosis | Good if caught early. Can be fatal if not treated. | Good if caught early. Can be fatal if not treated. | Poor if not treated. The earlier melanoma is diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis. |