Skin checks: when, where and what to look for

Winter may seem an unlikely time to think about sun damage, but June is actually an ideal month for skin checks on the Sunshine Coast. With UV levels lower and holiday season approaching, now is when many locals schedule preventive health appointments before summer arrives.

The Australian Cancer Council recommends all adults examine their skin monthly and visit a GP for a professional check every two years—or annually if you have fair skin, a family history of melanoma, or more than 20 moles. "Early detection saves lives," says Dr Sarah Chen, a GP at Noosa Medical Centre on Hastings Street. "I'm seeing patients come in specifically for skin checks before they head to Noosa National Park or Mooloolaba Esplanade during warmer months."

When examining your own skin, use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry (one half doesn't match the other), Border irregularity, Colour variation within a spot, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Elevation or changes over time. Pay special attention to areas with sun exposure—your scalp, ears, décolletage, hands and the back of your neck.

On the Sunshine Coast, several clinics now offer dedicated skin-check services. Most GPs bulk-bill the initial consultation, though dermoscopy (a magnified examination tool) may incur a gap fee of $30–$60. If your GP suspects a concerning lesion, a biopsy costs around $150–$300 depending on location and complexity.

The University of the Sunshine Coast Health and Wellbeing Precinct has also begun offering community skin-screening days, typically free or low-cost, particularly targeting high-risk groups. Check their website for upcoming sessions.

Beyond professional checks, prevention remains paramount. When walking the Eumundi markets on weekends or exploring coastal tracks, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure, reapply every two hours, and wear protective clothing—long sleeves and hats are increasingly fashionable. Antioxidant-rich foods from local organic produce stalls may also support skin health from within.

"The conversation around skin cancer has shifted from treatment to prevention," Dr Chen explains. "Patients who monitor themselves regularly and catch changes early have significantly better outcomes."

Book your skin check during a routine GP visit—it takes 10 minutes and could be one of the most important preventive health decisions you make this year. Most Sunshine Coast medical centres can schedule appointments within two weeks. As always, consult your local GP for personal medical advice.

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