4. A basic understanding of your moles or pigmentation.
It's estimated that in 2015 there will be approximately 73,000 new cases of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, and rates are increasing in individuals under 40. A dermatologist can do a full body scan in order to map and make sure everything checks out normally. And the more familiar you are with your body, the more likely you are to notice and speak up when something changes.