Melanoma Treatment Specialist in Rolling Hills Estates, CA and Seal Beach, CA

At Rolling Hills Dermatology Group, we are dedicated to the early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of all types of skin cancer, including melanoma—a particularly serious form of skin cancer that arises from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in your skin. Unlike more common skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma can grow rapidly and has a higher likelihood of spreading (metastasizing) to other parts of the body if not identified and treated promptly.

Our dermatology specialists emphasize the importance of monitoring your skin for new moles or changes in existing moles, especially those that have irregular borders, uneven colors, or are increasing in size. While basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma typically appear on sun-exposed areas and tend to grow more slowly, melanoma can develop anywhere on the body—including areas not usually exposed to sunlight.

Because melanoma poses a higher risk for spreading and can be life-threatening, early diagnosis and intervention are critical. We use advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, schedule an appointment with our experienced team for a thorough skin evaluation. Your health and peace of mind are our top priorities.

We are committed to helping our patients protect their skin health and prevent serious conditions like melanoma. Melanoma is a dangerous form of skin cancer that develops when the DNA in melanocytes—the pigment-producing cells in your skin—becomes damaged and undergoes genetic changes, leading to uncontrolled cell growth.

The most significant cause of this DNA damage is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which comes from sunlight and artificial sources like tanning beds. UV radiation can directly harm the DNA in skin cells, resulting in mutations that disrupt the normal processes controlling cell division and death. Over time, repeated and intense UV exposure increases the chance of these mutations accumulating in melanocytes, which may lead to melanoma.

In addition to UV exposure, some people are at higher risk due to genetic factors. If you have a family history of melanoma or have inherited specific genetic mutations (such as those in the CDKN2A or BRAF genes), your risk is increased. Certain inherited conditions, such as familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome, also contribute to a higher risk. Having a large number of moles, especially atypical or unusual-looking moles, is another important risk factor we monitor closely at Rolling Hills Dermatology Group.

Other factors that may contribute to melanoma development include having fair skin, light hair, and light eyes, as these features offer less natural protection from UV rays. A history of frequent sunburns, especially during childhood, can further elevate your risk. Additionally, a weakened immune system—whether from medical conditions or immunosuppressive medications—can reduce your body’s ability to repair damaged DNA or eliminate abnormal cells, making melanoma more likely to develop.

At Rolling Hills Dermatology Group, we want our patients to be informed about the risks and prevention of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Certain individuals in our community are at higher risk, including those with fair skin, freckles, and light-colored eyes or hair—especially if they sunburn easily. If you have a history of intense, intermittent sun exposure, particularly with blistering sunburns in childhood or adolescence, your risk may be higher.

A personal or family history of melanoma, or previous diagnoses of other skin cancers, also increases your risk. Individuals with a large number of moles or atypical (dysplastic) moles should be especially vigilant. Frequent use of tanning beds or significant time spent in the sun without protection can further increase vulnerability to melanoma. Additionally, those with weakened immune systems, such as transplant recipients or individuals with immune-related conditions, face a greater risk.

We emphasize the importance of regular skin checks and sun protection for everyone—especially for those with these risk factors. If you are concerned about your risk for melanoma or would like to schedule a skin exam, our experienced dermatology team is here to help. Your skin health is our priority.

At Rolling Hills Dermatology Group, we understand that melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer where early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Our board-certified dermatologists emphasize the importance of recognizing the early warning signs of melanoma, which often include noticeable changes in an existing mole or the appearance of a new, unusual growth on the skin.

Some important signs to look out for include:
● A mole that changes in size, shape, or color
● Uneven borders that appear ragged, notched, or blurred
● Multiple colors within a mole, such as brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue
● A mole that is larger than a pencil eraser (about 6 mm), though melanomas can be smaller when first detected

Any mole that is evolving—growing, itching, bleeding, or becoming tender
Melanoma may also develop as a new pigmented or unusual-looking growth on otherwise normal skin. If you notice any of these changes, we encourage you to schedule a skin evaluation at Rolling Hills Dermatology Group as soon as possible. Our experienced team uses advanced diagnostic tools to detect skin cancers early, when treatment is most effective.

Your skin health is our top priority—don’t wait to have concerning spots checked by our dermatology experts. Early intervention can make all the difference. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Rolling Hills Estate CA, Torrance CA, West Carson CA, Lomita CA, Palos Verdes Estates CA, Hermosa Beach CA, Manhattan Beach CA, Redondo Beach CA, Seal Beach CA, Rossmoor CA, Garden Groce CA, Santon CA, Westminister CA, and surrounding areas.