Reviewed by: Joshua M. Newman, M.D.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and as you age, your risk steadily rises. At AMARA – Aesthetic Surgery and Dermatology in Venice, FL, we see firsthand how skin changes over time, and how important early skin cancer diagnosis and treatment can be at every stage of life. Your skin can tell a lot about your health.

Knowing how skin cancer risk evolves with age can help you stay proactive about your health, especially here in sunny Florida, where year-round sun exposure is a way of life.

Why Skin Cancer Risk Increases As You Get Older

While anyone can develop skin cancer, older adults face a higher risk due to a lifetime of cumulative sun exposure and age-related skin changes.

According to the National Council on Aging, most skin cancers are diagnosed in people over the age of 65. Nearly half of all new cancer diagnoses are in people 70 and older—and skin cancer is one of the most common among them. Here’s why:

  • Cumulative UV Damage: Years of sun exposure from outdoor hobbies, vacations, or simply running errands add up over time. UV radiation damages skin cells and increases the likelihood of cancerous changes.
  • Weakened Immune Response: Aging can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to repair DNA damage or fight off abnormal cell growth. Your diet can also contribute to this.
  • Skin Changes with Age: New research from Johns Hopkins shows that aging skin becomes stiffer and less elastic, which may help melanoma tumors spread more easily. As skin loses proteins like HAPLN1, blood vessels in the skin become leakier, making it easier for cancer to grow and metastasize.

The Types of Skin Cancer to Know

At AMARA, we diagnose and treat all major types of skin cancer, each with its own behavior and risks:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common form of skin cancer. BCC often looks like a pink bump or sore that doesn’t heal. It’s slow-growing but can become locally invasive if not treated early.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This appears as a red, scaly patch or bump, often on sun-exposed areas like the face and hands. SCC can spread to other parts of the body, especially in older or immunocompromised individuals.
  • Melanoma: The most serious form of skin cancer. It can develop from a mole or appear as a new dark spot. Older adults are more likely to develop thicker melanomas that are diagnosed later, making early detection even more critical.

Skin Cancer in the Elderly: An Emerging Concern

In geriatric dermatology, skin cancer is now considered an emerging public health issue. A comprehensive study published in Aging and Disease found that white-skinned adults over 65 represent the largest demographic affected by skin cancer, and treatment becomes more complex with age due to other health conditions, limited mobility, or delayed detection.

Older patients are also more likely to experience recurrence or treatment resistance, especially with aggressive melanomas. This is why a personalized, age-aware treatment plan is key.

At AMARA, our board-certified providers, including Dr. Joshua M. Newman and Shannon Bednarz, PA-C, offer individualized care backed by the latest research and techniques. Whether you’re dealing with a suspicious mole or need post-treatment monitoring.

Why Regular Skin Checks Matter—Especially as You Age

Here in Florida, where UV exposure is high year-round, routine skin cancer testing is essential, especially for those over 50. Yet, many people assume a quick glance in the mirror is enough. The truth is, only a trained dermatologist can reliably spot early signs of skin cancer.

Skin cancer testing is covered by Medicare and most insurance plans. At AMARA, we perform comprehensive skin exams to identify and monitor any suspicious spots early when treatment is most effective and less invasive.

Protecting Your Skin at Any Age

It’s never too late to start protecting your skin. Our dermatology experts recommend:

  • Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily (SPF 30+)
  • Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses outdoors
  • Scheduling annual skin checks—even if you haven’t noticed anything unusual
  • Avoiding peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m)
  • Monitoring moles for any changes in shape, color, or size

If you notice a new spot, changing, bleeding, or not healing, don’t wait. Early detection can save your skin and your life. Here are the top ten questions to ask your dermatologist about skin cancer.

More Resources For Skin Cancer

Expert Skin Cancer Care in Venice, FL

If you’re concerned about your risk for skin cancer or need a professional skin exam, AMARA is here for you. Our state-of-the-art dermatology practice offers expert skin cancer diagnosis, testing, and treatment in a calm, caring environment.


 Call us at 941-499-7823 or book an appointment online.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, medical knowledge is constantly evolving, and new research may change the nature of certain conditions. Please remember to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for proper diagnosis, treatment, and guidance regarding skin cancer or any other medical condition.

 

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