Care

Everyday skin awareness, without the jargon

Simple routines that help you notice change sooner: a monthly self-check, better photos for comparison, and UV-smart habits. This page is educational only—not a diagnosis or medical advice.

If you’re worried now, consider contacting a clinician or local dermatology service.

A simple monthly self-check

Once a month, take 10 minutes to look over your skin. You’re not diagnosing—just noticing what’s new or changing.

  1. 1. Good light, full length mirror. Add a hand mirror for scalp, back, and hard-to-see areas.
  2. 2. Scan head-to-toe. Face/scalp → trunk → arms → hands → legs → feet (tops, soles, between toes).
  3. 3. Look for “new, growing, or different”. Focus on change over time rather than any single feature.
  4. 4. Note anything you want to re-check. A quick note or photo helps you compare next month.

Tip: pick a recurring date (e.g., first Sunday). Consistency matters more than perfection.

If you notice rapid change, bleeding, or a sore that doesn’t heal, consider seeing a clinician.

Notice the change, not just the checklist

Checklists can help, but the most useful signal is change: something new, something growing, or something that looks different from your other spots. When in doubt, compare with a previous photo.

New

A spot you haven’t seen before, especially after age 30.

Growing

Noticeable increase in size, height, or spread over weeks/months.

Different

Looks unlike your other spots (“the odd one out”).

Better photos for comparison

Consistent photos make change easier to see. Keep it simple and repeatable.

  • Same lighting: natural light near a window, or the same lamp each time.
  • Same distance: use your arm’s length or a marked spot on the floor.
  • Reference: include a coin/ruler for scale when helpful.
  • One focus point: tap to focus; avoid heavy flash glare.
  • Label it: a short note (“left forearm, Jan 2026”).

Privacy note: store photos where you’re comfortable. YouCanScan’s photo log will be optional when available.

UV-smart habits, without overthinking it

Small, steady habits go further than perfect routines. Focus on the moments that matter most.

Time & shade

  • Midday sun is strongest—plan shade breaks.
  • Water, sand, and snow reflect UV—double up on protection.
  • Altitude and latitude increase intensity.

Cover & protect

  • Hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing first.
  • Sunscreen for exposed areas; reapply during long outings.
  • Lip balm with SPF helps more than you’d think.

Make it stick

  • Keep a small kit by the door or in your bag.
  • Check local UV on busy outdoor days.
  • Gentle reminders beat all-or-nothing plans.

Helpful next steps

Want a starting point? Try a quick awareness check and build a simple monthly routine.

Run an awareness checkStart a monthly self-check

YouCanScan supports awareness and prevention. It is not a diagnosis and doesn’t replace a clinician’s advice.