Everything you need to know about workplace skin checks

Worried a skin check might be uncomfortable? Not sure what will happen or whether you even need one? A skin check is a quick, painless examination of your skin to look for early signs of skin cancer, so there’s no need to wait until a spot looks or feels concerning before getting checked.

It is common knowledge that Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Noticing and monitoring changes to your skin early can make a difference to treatment outcomes. Here, we answer the common questions people have about skin checks, so you know what to expect and why early detection matters.

Supporting skin health can be an important part of workplace health and wellbeing, especially for employees who regularly work outdoors or spend significant time in the sun. Get in touch with us today to learn more about supporting your team with workplace skin checks or other general information.

What Is a Skin Check and What Happens During One?

Simply put, a skin check is an examination of your skin by a GP or other qualified healthcare professional to identify suspicious spots, moles or other changes. The skin is examined under good lighting, often with a dermatoscope, which allows the clinician to look at spots in greater detail.

Skin checks are painless and do not usually require a referral. For workplace skin checks, employees can have their skin examined as part of the workplace program without needing a referral from their GP.

It is a common misconception that you need to see a dermatologist for a skin check. While a GP or other qualified healthcare professional can perform an initial assessment, you may be referred to a dermatologist or other specialist if a spot requires further investigation.

How Often Should I Have My Skin Checked?

For most, an annual skin check is recommended, particularly if you have a higher risk of skin cancer. However, it can also be dependent on your individual risk factors and personal history.

Regular skin checks are especially recommended for people with:

• Fair skin type
• Lots of moles or freckles
• A history of significant sun exposure or sun damage
• A personal or family history of skin cancer
• A weakened immune system
• Those with a previous diagnosis of melanoma or another type of skin cancer
• Regular outdoor work involving prolonged sun exposure

Winter is a popular time to book a skin check, particularly after the warmer months when your skin has had more exposure to the sun. Having frequent checks can help your doctor identify and monitor any changes that may have developed over time.

What Should I Look for Between Checks?

Warning signs can appear at any time, so it is important not to dismiss changes to your skin. Checking your skin regularly can help you notice anything new or unusual and seek medical advice early.

See your GP as soon as possible if you notice:

• A new or unusual spot or lesion
• A mole that changes in size, shape or colour
• A spot with an irregular or uneven border
• A spot that looks noticeably different from your other moles or marks
• A sore or lesion that does not heal
• A spot that repeatedly itches, bleeds, crusts or becomes painful
• A spot that grows or changes over time

These changes do not necessarily mean you have skin cancer, but they should be assessed by a healthcare professional. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body if it is not detected and treated early, which is why noticing and acting on changes promptly is important.

Set Up a Skin Check Campaign Today

At BizHealth, we bring professional skin checks directly to your workplace, making it easier for employees to prioritise their skin health. Our programs are designed to be convenient and minimally disruptive, allowing employees to have their skin checked during the workday without the need to arrange a separate appointment.

With workplace health services available across Australia and New Zealand, we can help your organisation make skin checks and early detection a practical part of your workplace health and wellbeing program. Submit an enquiry with us to get started today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral for a skin check?

No. Generally, you do not need a referral to have a skin check with a GP or qualified healthcare professional.

What happens if something is found?

If a skin check identifies a spot or mole that requires further investigation, the healthcare professional you had your initial skin check with will explain the next steps. Finding something during a skin check does not necessarily mean it is skin cancer, but it is important to have it assessed promptly to support early detection and treatment if needed.