Whether you work outdoors, commute through Brisbane CBD or enjoy weekends by the river, checking your skin should be part of looking after your health.

But how often should you get a skin cancer check? What does a GP look for, and what happens if they find a suspicious mole?

This guide explains what to know before booking a skin check near Brisbane CBD, including the warning signs to look for and how a professional skin examination works.

1. How Often Should You Get a Skin Check in Queensland?

There is no single recommended interval for everyone. How often you need a professional skin check depends on your personal risk factors, medical history and whether you have noticed any changes.

People with a previous skin cancer, a strong family history of melanoma, numerous or atypical moles, or significant UV exposure may need regular examinations at intervals recommended by their GP. People at lower risk should still monitor their skin and seek an assessment if something changes.

Your GP can help determine an appropriate schedule based on your individual circumstances.

Consider arranging a skin check if you:

• Have previously been diagnosed with melanoma or another skin cancer.
• Have a close family history of melanoma.
• Have fair skin, a history of sunburn or substantial lifetime UV exposure.
• Have many moles or unusual-looking spots.
• Work outdoors or spend considerable time in the sun.
• Notice a new, changing, itchy, bleeding or non-healing skin lesion.

Important: Do not wait for your next routine appointment if you notice a suspicious change. A new or changing spot deserves medical assessment, even if your last skin check was relatively recent.

Regular self-checks can help you recognise changes between appointments. A GP can advise whether professional monitoring is appropriate for your risk level.

2. Why Skin Checks Matter in Queensland

Queensland experiences some of the highest UV exposure levels in Australia. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can damage skin cells, and the damage accumulates over time. Sunburn is one visible sign of UV injury, but skin damage can also occur without an obvious burn.

According to Queensland Health, Australia has one of the world's highest rates of skin cancer, and Queensland has the highest rate in the country.

Three common types of skin cancer are:

• Melanoma: Develops from pigment-producing cells and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated appropriately.
• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer, often appearing as a pearly lump, pink growth or persistent sore.
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): May appear as a scaly, crusted or thickened patch, a firm lump or a sore that does not heal.

Skin cancers do not always look the same. Some appear as dark moles, while others are pink, red, pale or skin-coloured. They may be flat, raised, scaly or shiny.

A skin check gives your GP an opportunity to assess suspicious spots, identify possible skin cancers and recommend further investigation when needed.

People who spend much of their working day indoors are not automatically protected. Previous sun exposure, outdoor recreation and occasional sunburn can all contribute to cumulative UV damage.

Does skin cancer only affect older people?

No. The risk generally increases with age and cumulative UV exposure, but younger adults can also develop skin cancer, including melanoma. It is important to pay attention to changes at any age rather than assuming you are too young to be affected.

3. The ABCDE Guide and the “Ugly Duckling” Sign

Knowing what is normal for your skin makes it easier to notice unusual changes. The ABCDE guide is a useful way to recognise warning signs associated with melanoma.

Not every suspicious lesion displays all five features. Some melanomas may be small or lack the typical appearance described by the ABCDE guide.

What is the “ugly duckling” sign?

The ugly duckling sign refers to a mole or spot that looks noticeably different from your other moles.

For example, most of your freckles might be small and light brown, but one spot could be much darker, larger or more irregular. That difference is worth getting checked, even if the spot does not clearly match every ABCDE warning sign.

Also look for:

• A sore that does not heal.
• A spot that repeatedly bleeds, crusts or becomes irritated.
• A new lump or growth.
• A persistent red or scaly patch.
• A mole that becomes itchy or changes in appearance.

Check your entire skin surface, including your scalp, ears, back, soles of your feet and areas between your toes. Use a mirror or ask someone you trust to help with areas that are difficult to see.

Self-checks are useful, but they cannot replace a medical assessment when something concerns you.

4. What Happens During a Skin Check? A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have never booked a professional skin examination, knowing what to expect may make the process less daunting.

Step 1: Discuss Your Skin and Medical History

Your GP may ask about previous skin cancers, family history, sunburn, outdoor work, tanning bed use and any spots you have noticed.

Tell your doctor about lesions that have changed, bled, itched or failed to heal. If you have photographs showing how a spot has changed over time, these may also be helpful.

Step 2: Prepare for the Examination

Your GP will explain the examination and discuss your concerns. You may be asked to change into a gown or remove clothing as needed to examine the skin thoroughly.

You should be given appropriate privacy and the opportunity to ask questions. Let your doctor know if you feel uncomfortable at any stage.

Step 3: Examine the Skin

The extent of the examination depends on your concerns, risk factors and the agreed assessment.

A comprehensive examination may involve checking your moles, freckles, sun-damaged areas and other skin lesions across the body. Your GP may use a handheld magnifying instrument called a dermatoscope to examine a spot more closely.

The examination can include areas that are not regularly exposed to sunlight, because skin cancer can develop there too.

Step 4: Discuss Any Suspicious Spots

If your GP identifies a lesion that needs further investigation, they will explain why it is concerning and discuss the next step.

Depending on the findings, this may involve monitoring, taking a photograph for comparison, arranging a biopsy or removing the lesion for pathological examination.

A suspicious spot does not automatically mean you have cancer. Further assessment is needed to establish what it is.

Step 5: Plan Follow-Up Care

Your GP will explain any recommended follow-up, skin monitoring and sun-protection measures.

If a biopsy is required, the sample is generally sent to a pathology laboratory. Your doctor will arrange to discuss the results and explain whether further treatment or specialist care is necessary.

At Dockside Medical Hub, skin checks and skin biopsy services are available. You can learn more about the clinic's skin check services and biopsy procedures.

How long does a skin check take?

The duration varies according to the extent of the examination, your medical history and whether any suspicious lesions require closer assessment. Ask the clinic when booking how much time to allow for your appointment.

5. Men and Skin Cancer: Why Regular Checks Matter

Skin cancer affects people of all genders, but men should pay particular attention to their skin health.

Men who work in construction, landscaping, transport, agriculture or other outdoor occupations may accumulate substantial UV exposure over time. Recreational activities, including golf, fishing, running and other outdoor sports, can add to that exposure.

Some men may also overlook changes on their backs, shoulders, scalp or ears because these areas are difficult to inspect independently.

A few practical steps can help:

• Check your skin regularly for new or changing spots.
• Use a mirror or ask a partner to check hard-to-see areas.
• Arrange medical assessment for suspicious moles or persistent sores.
• Use broad-spectrum SPF 50 or 50+ sunscreen and reapply according to the product instructions.
• Wear protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Seek shade when UV levels are high and check the daily UV index.

Skin cancer is not always painful in its early stages. Waiting until a spot becomes uncomfortable can delay assessment.

Women and people of every gender should follow the same principle: know your skin, recognise changes and seek medical advice when needed.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Checks Near Brisbane CBD

Is a skin check bulk billed?

Bulk billing depends on the clinic's billing policy, the doctor's discretion and your eligibility. Dockside Medical Hub operates under a mixed billing model, and bulk billing may be available to eligible patients at the doctor's discretion. Contact reception before your appointment to confirm any fees and whether you are eligible.

Do I need a referral for a skin check?

You generally do not need a referral to book a skin check directly with a GP. If further specialist assessment is required, your doctor can discuss whether a referral is appropriate.

What happens if the GP finds a suspicious mole?

Your GP may examine the lesion more closely and recommend monitoring, a biopsy or removal, depending on the findings. If a sample is taken, a pathologist examines it to help determine whether cancer is present. Your doctor will explain the results and any further care required.

Can a skin check detect every skin cancer?

No examination can guarantee that every skin cancer will be detected. Regular self-checks, awareness of changes and appropriate medical assessments work together to support early detection. Seek advice promptly if a spot changes after a previous examination.

Should I get a skin check if I have no symptoms?

You can discuss preventive skin checks with your GP, particularly if you have risk factors such as a previous skin cancer, a family history of melanoma or substantial UV exposure. There is no universal screening interval for every person, so your doctor can help determine what is appropriate for you.

Where can I book a skin check near Brisbane CBD?

Dockside Medical Hub is located at 35 Ferry Street, Kangaroo Point, Brisbane, within the CBD-adjacent riverside area. The clinic offers GP skin checks and can assess suspicious skin lesions.

You can visit the Dockside Medical Hub skin check page or call (07) 2100 0433 to enquire about appointments, availability and fees.

Book a Skin Check at Dockside Medical Hub

Living in Queensland means spending time in a high-UV environment, making skin awareness an important part of preventive healthcare. Recognising a changing mole, checking a persistent sore or discussing your personal risk with a GP can help you take the next step when something does not look right.

If you have noticed an unusual spot or would like advice about your skin cancer risk, consider booking an appointment with Dr Michael Szalay, GP with experience in skin cancer medicine, at Dockside Medical Hub in Kangaroo Point.

Secure Your Appointment: Book a skin check with Dockside Medical Hub or call (07) 2100 0433 to discuss your needs and confirm appointment fees.