What causes itchy bumps on skin that look like mosquito bites. How can you identify different types of skin reactions. When should you consult a doctor for unexplained skin bumps.

Common Causes of Itchy Skin Bumps

Itchy bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites can be caused by various conditions. Understanding these causes is crucial for proper treatment and relief. Let’s explore some of the most common culprits behind these mysterious skin reactions.

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives, medically known as urticaria, are a frequent cause of itchy skin bumps. They affect approximately 20% of people at some point in their lives. These raised, itchy areas can appear suddenly and disappear just as quickly, often changing location on the body.

What triggers hives? Common causes include:

• Food allergies (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts, seafood)
• Latex exposure
• Pollen
• Insect bites or stings
• Certain plants
• Medications (e.g., sulfa drugs, aspirin)

How can you identify hives? Hives typically present as red, purple, or skin-colored bumps that turn white or disappear when pressed. They can appear anywhere on the body and tend to change location over time.

Treating Hives and Managing Allergic Reactions

The treatment for hives varies depending on the severity and underlying cause. Here are some strategies for managing hives:

1. Avoid known triggers
2. Use anti-itching lotions
3. Take over-the-counter antihistamines
4. Consult a doctor for prescription medications if symptoms are severe

For individuals with severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) may be necessary to prevent life-threatening reactions in case of accidental exposure to allergens.

Bed Bug Bites: A Common Culprit

Bed bug bites can often be mistaken for mosquito bites. These tiny pests leave itchy bumps that may take up to two weeks to appear after the initial bite. How can you determine if bed bugs are the cause of your skin irritation?

Look for these signs:

• Bites appearing in a straight line
• Visible bed bugs on mattresses or sheets
• Dead bed bugs
• Blood spots on bedding
• A characteristic musty odor

While bed bug bites can be intensely itchy, they rarely pose serious health risks. Treatment typically involves simple self-care practices:

• Avoid scratching the affected areas
• Apply over-the-counter antiseptic ointments
• Take antihistamines to reduce itching

Contact Dermatitis: When Your Skin Reacts to Allergens

Contact dermatitis is an allergic reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen. This condition can cause itchy bumps and inflammation that may be mistaken for insect bites.

What are common triggers for contact dermatitis?

• Latex
• Certain metals (e.g., nickel)
• Household products
• Cosmetics and skincare products
• Plants (e.g., poison ivy)

How long does contact dermatitis last? Symptoms typically develop within 1-2 days of exposure and can persist for 2-3 weeks. The reaction may be painful as well as itchy, and blisters may form in severe cases.

Managing Contact Dermatitis and Identifying Triggers

Treating contact dermatitis involves a combination of symptom relief and trigger avoidance. Here are some strategies:

1. Apply cold compresses to soothe the affected area
2. Use calamine lotion to reduce itching
3. Take soothing baths with colloidal oatmeal
4. Consult a doctor for prescription antihistamines or cortisone if needed

Identifying triggers can be challenging, as there are over 3,700 substances known to cause contact allergies. Working with an allergist or dermatologist can help pinpoint specific allergens through patch testing.

Scabies: When Mites Cause Skin Irritation

Scabies is a skin condition caused by the human itch mite. These microscopic parasites burrow into the top layer of skin, laying eggs and causing intense itching and a rash that can resemble mosquito bites.

How can you identify scabies?

• Intense itching, especially at night
• Small, itchy bumps on the skin
• Visible burrow tracks (thin, raised, crooked lines on the skin)
• Rash commonly found between fingers, on wrists, elbows, and other warm areas of the body

Scabies is highly contagious and requires medical treatment. A doctor will typically prescribe a topical medication to kill the mites and their eggs. It’s essential to treat all household members and wash all bedding and clothing to prevent reinfestation.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Skin Bumps

While many cases of itchy skin bumps can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical advice. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if:

• The rash persists for more than two weeks despite home treatment
• You experience severe itching that interferes with daily activities or sleep
• The rash is accompanied by fever, swelling, or signs of infection
• You have a known severe allergy and suspect exposure to a trigger
• The rash spreads rapidly or covers a large area of the body

A dermatologist or allergist can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options for persistent or severe skin reactions.

Prevention and Self-Care for Itchy Skin

While it’s not always possible to prevent itchy skin bumps, certain practices can help minimize the risk and provide relief:

1. Identify and avoid known allergens or irritants
2. Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and detergents
3. Keep skin moisturized to prevent dryness and irritation
4. Wear protective clothing when outdoors to avoid insect bites
5. Practice good hygiene to prevent skin infections
6. Use a humidifier in dry environments to maintain skin hydration

Remember, scratching itchy skin can lead to further irritation and potential infection. Instead, try applying cool compresses or taking an oatmeal bath to soothe the affected areas.

Understanding Skin Reactions and Their Impact on Quality of Life

Itchy skin bumps, regardless of their cause, can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. The constant urge to scratch, discomfort, and potential embarrassment from visible skin reactions can affect sleep, work performance, and social interactions.

How can you cope with the psychological effects of skin reactions?

• Practice stress-reduction techniques, as stress can exacerbate skin conditions
• Join support groups or online communities for people with similar skin issues
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy to manage anxiety or depression related to skin conditions
• Educate friends and family about your condition to increase understanding and support

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of skin reactions, individuals can better manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

Emerging Treatments and Research in Dermatology

The field of dermatology is constantly evolving, with new treatments and research offering hope for those suffering from chronic skin conditions. Some promising areas of development include:

• Biologic medications for severe allergic reactions and chronic hives
• Immunotherapy for treating allergic contact dermatitis
• Advanced diagnostic tools for identifying rare allergens
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic profiling

As research progresses, individuals with persistent or difficult-to-treat skin conditions may have access to more effective and targeted therapies in the future.

The Role of Diet in Skin Health

While the connection between diet and skin health is complex, certain nutritional strategies may help support overall skin function and reduce inflammation. Consider incorporating these elements into your diet:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts)
• Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables
• Probiotics for gut health, which may influence skin conditions
• Adequate hydration to maintain skin moisture

It’s important to note that dietary changes should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, especially if you have known food allergies or sensitivities.

Environmental Factors and Skin Reactions

Environmental conditions can play a significant role in triggering or exacerbating skin reactions. Be aware of these potential irritants:

• Extreme temperatures (hot or cold)
• Low humidity levels
• Sunlight exposure
• Air pollution
• Chlorinated water

Protecting your skin from these elements through appropriate clothing, sunscreen use, and indoor climate control can help reduce the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions.

The Importance of Skin Patch Testing

For individuals with recurrent skin reactions or suspected contact allergies, skin patch testing can be a valuable diagnostic tool. This procedure involves applying small amounts of potential allergens to the skin and observing the reaction over several days.

What are the benefits of skin patch testing?

• Identifies specific allergens causing reactions
• Helps create personalized avoidance strategies
• Can lead to more effective treatment plans
• May prevent future allergic reactions

If you experience frequent unexplained skin reactions, discuss the possibility of skin patch testing with your dermatologist or allergist.

The Role of Genetics in Skin Sensitivity

Recent research has highlighted the role of genetics in determining an individual’s susceptibility to various skin conditions and allergic reactions. Understanding your genetic predisposition can help in developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

How does genetic testing contribute to skin health management?

• Identifies increased risk for certain skin conditions
• Helps predict potential allergic reactions
• Guides personalized treatment approaches
• Informs lifestyle and environmental modifications

While genetic testing is not necessary for everyone, it may be beneficial for those with a strong family history of skin conditions or severe allergic reactions.

The Impact of Climate Change on Skin Health

Climate change is increasingly recognized as a factor influencing skin health and the prevalence of certain skin conditions. Changes in temperature, humidity, and air quality can affect skin barrier function and exacerbate existing skin problems.

How might climate change impact skin health?

• Increased UV radiation exposure due to ozone depletion
• Changes in pollen seasons affecting allergic reactions
• Altered distribution of insects and plants that cause skin reactions
• Increased air pollution leading to skin irritation and premature aging

Staying informed about these environmental changes and adapting skin care routines accordingly can help mitigate potential negative effects on skin health.

The Future of Personalized Skin Care

As technology advances, the future of skin care is moving towards highly personalized approaches. This includes tailored products and treatments based on an individual’s unique skin characteristics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

What innovations are shaping the future of personalized skin care?

• AI-powered skin analysis tools
• Custom-formulated skincare products
• Wearable devices that monitor skin health in real-time
• Microbiome-based treatments

These advancements promise to revolutionize how we approach skin health, offering more effective and targeted solutions for a wide range of skin concerns.

Itchy bumps on skin like mosquito bites: What are they?

Several skin conditions can cause itchy lumps that resemble bug bites. These include allergic reactions, infections, and chronic conditions.

Most people experience this symptom at some point. Itchy bumps can appear as a result of allergies, infections, insects, and, sometimes, nonidentified factors.

However, there is one general principle that the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommend people to follow when their skin itches: Do not scratch it.

Additional general self-care practices for itchy skin include:

• bathing frequently in lukewarm water
• using gentle, hypoallergenic soap
• limiting exposure to the sun
• applying cold compresses
• avoiding tight clothing in areas where itchy bumps appear

Understanding the different conditions that can cause itchy bumps on the skin can help people get appropriate treatment. Depending on the cause, treatment can range from avoiding certain foods to taking prescription medications.

Keep reading to learn more about some common causes of itchy bumps that look like mosquito bites and how to treat them.

The medical term for hives is urticaria, and it describes a condition that produces raised itchy areas on the skin. If a person notices bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites but has not had any exposure to mosquitos, the cause is probably acute urticaria. The term “acute” means that the condition does not last longer than 6 weeks.

Hives are very common, affecting about 20% of people at some point in their lives. Certain kinds of foods, such as peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood, cause hives in many people due to an allergic reaction. Latex, pollen, insects, various plants, and some medications, such as sulfa drugs or even aspirin, may also cause hives.

Hives cause characteristic red, purple, or skin colored itchy bumps that appear and disappear quickly anywhere on the body. These bumps typically turn white or disappear when a person presses them.

Treatment

The treatment for hives depends on the severity and cause of the rash, but it includes avoiding known triggers. People who are extremely allergic to a trigger — for example, peanuts or certain insects — may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an Epipen. This device can stop a potentially life threatening reaction if a person has accidental contact with a known allergen.

Anti-itching lotions and over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines can provide relief for mild symptoms, while more intense outbreaks may require stronger prescription versions of these drugs or corticosteroids.

Learn more about hives here.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bed bug bites can resemble bites from other bugs, although they can take as long as 2 weeks to materialize.

People who notice itchy bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites should check for:

• other signs of bed bugs
• bed bugs themselves on a mattress or sheet
• dead bed bugs
• blood spots on a mattress or sheet
• the characteristic musty smell associated with bed bugs

If the bites appear in a straight line, they are likely to be due to bed bugs. However, bed bug bugs can also appear in more random formations.

Treatment

Unless someone has a severe allergic reaction, experts recommend simple self-care practices to treat any bites. These include not scratching, applying OTC antiseptic ointments, and taking antihistamines.

Learn more about bed bugs here.

Contact dermatitis is essentially an allergic reaction that develops when a person’s skin comes into contact with something to which they are allergic, such as latex or certain metals or household products.

It can take 1–2 days for the reaction to develop and 2–3 weeks for symptoms to disappear. Contact dermatitis may hurt as much as it itches, and it may present with inflammation and blisters.

Treatment

Self-care with cold compresses, calamine lotion, and soothing baths can help provide relief.

Prescription medication, such as antihistamines and cortisone, may be necessary if the reaction is severe.

Working with healthcare professionals can help people identify their triggers, which can be complicated.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, there are more than 3,700 substances known to cause contact allergies. Avoiding triggers is a key part of managing contact dermatitis, along with thoroughly washing the affected area with soap and water after exposure happens.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

The human itch mite is responsible for scabies. This mite digs its way through the top layer of the skin and lays eggs. Its tunnels can sometimes be visible on the surface of the skin, where they appear as raised, crooked, skin colored lines. However, the most common symptom of scabies is itchy bumps on the skin. These are like mosquito bites, only smaller.

Sites of the body that this very itchy condition commonly affects include the wrists, the elbows, between the fingers, and behind the knees.

Treatment

Only a prescription lotion will treat scabies effectively, and individuals need to follow the application directions exactly. Anyone who has had extensive skin-to-skin contact with someone with scabies should also seek treatment.

It is very important that people with scabies thoroughly wash and dry all of their clothes, towels, sheets, bedding, and other household items. Other remedies for scabies may also help.

Learn more about scabies here.

Also known as atopic dermatitis, this common condition causes itchy, red, irritated skin that can sometimes develop bumps. In the long term, it can make the skin thicker, scaly, and flaky, as well as causing it to change color.

Scratching makes eczema worse and increases the risk of infection. Eczema occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, which prompt the immune system to overreact to certain triggers, such as laundry soap or sweating. It typically affects the face, elbows, knees, scalp, and backs of the hands.

Treatment

According to the National Eczema Association, treating eczema calls for a mix of self-care, OTC drugs, and prescription medications. People with eczema can identify and learn to manage or avoid triggers for their outbreaks.

Changing bathing practices and using moisturizer can also help. Prescription lotions, systemic medications, UVB light, and biologics can address more severe symptoms.

Learn more about the different types of eczema here.

Skin problems, such as itchy bumps on the skin similar to mosquito bites, can range from mild to severe.

Some issues, including bed bug bites, can be fleeting, while others, such as allergic reactions to certain foods, are signs of a permanent condition. However, most skin problems generally respond well to treatment.

If the symptoms do not improve with self-care practices, people should see a medical professional to determine what is causing the outbreak and how to treat it.

Itchy bumps on skin like mosquito bites: What are they?

Several skin conditions can cause itchy lumps that resemble bug bites. These include allergic reactions, infections, and chronic conditions.

Most people experience this symptom at some point. Itchy bumps can appear as a result of allergies, infections, insects, and, sometimes, nonidentified factors.

However, there is one general principle that the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommend people to follow when their skin itches: Do not scratch it.

Additional general self-care practices for itchy skin include:

• bathing frequently in lukewarm water
• using gentle, hypoallergenic soap
• limiting exposure to the sun
• applying cold compresses
• avoiding tight clothing in areas where itchy bumps appear

Understanding the different conditions that can cause itchy bumps on the skin can help people get appropriate treatment. Depending on the cause, treatment can range from avoiding certain foods to taking prescription medications.

Keep reading to learn more about some common causes of itchy bumps that look like mosquito bites and how to treat them.

The medical term for hives is urticaria, and it describes a condition that produces raised itchy areas on the skin. If a person notices bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites but has not had any exposure to mosquitos, the cause is probably acute urticaria. The term “acute” means that the condition does not last longer than 6 weeks.

Hives are very common, affecting about 20% of people at some point in their lives. Certain kinds of foods, such as peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood, cause hives in many people due to an allergic reaction. Latex, pollen, insects, various plants, and some medications, such as sulfa drugs or even aspirin, may also cause hives.

Hives cause characteristic red, purple, or skin colored itchy bumps that appear and disappear quickly anywhere on the body. These bumps typically turn white or disappear when a person presses them.

Treatment

The treatment for hives depends on the severity and cause of the rash, but it includes avoiding known triggers. People who are extremely allergic to a trigger — for example, peanuts or certain insects — may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an Epipen. This device can stop a potentially life threatening reaction if a person has accidental contact with a known allergen.

Anti-itching lotions and over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines can provide relief for mild symptoms, while more intense outbreaks may require stronger prescription versions of these drugs or corticosteroids.

Learn more about hives here.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bed bug bites can resemble bites from other bugs, although they can take as long as 2 weeks to materialize.

People who notice itchy bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites should check for:

• other signs of bed bugs
• bed bugs themselves on a mattress or sheet
• dead bed bugs
• blood spots on a mattress or sheet
• the characteristic musty smell associated with bed bugs

If the bites appear in a straight line, they are likely to be due to bed bugs. However, bed bug bugs can also appear in more random formations.

Treatment

Unless someone has a severe allergic reaction, experts recommend simple self-care practices to treat any bites. These include not scratching, applying OTC antiseptic ointments, and taking antihistamines.

Learn more about bed bugs here.

Contact dermatitis is essentially an allergic reaction that develops when a person’s skin comes into contact with something to which they are allergic, such as latex or certain metals or household products.

It can take 1–2 days for the reaction to develop and 2–3 weeks for symptoms to disappear. Contact dermatitis may hurt as much as it itches, and it may present with inflammation and blisters.

Treatment

Self-care with cold compresses, calamine lotion, and soothing baths can help provide relief.

Prescription medication, such as antihistamines and cortisone, may be necessary if the reaction is severe.

Working with healthcare professionals can help people identify their triggers, which can be complicated.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, there are more than 3,700 substances known to cause contact allergies. Avoiding triggers is a key part of managing contact dermatitis, along with thoroughly washing the affected area with soap and water after exposure happens.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

The human itch mite is responsible for scabies. This mite digs its way through the top layer of the skin and lays eggs. Its tunnels can sometimes be visible on the surface of the skin, where they appear as raised, crooked, skin colored lines. However, the most common symptom of scabies is itchy bumps on the skin. These are like mosquito bites, only smaller.

Sites of the body that this very itchy condition commonly affects include the wrists, the elbows, between the fingers, and behind the knees.

Treatment

Only a prescription lotion will treat scabies effectively, and individuals need to follow the application directions exactly. Anyone who has had extensive skin-to-skin contact with someone with scabies should also seek treatment.

It is very important that people with scabies thoroughly wash and dry all of their clothes, towels, sheets, bedding, and other household items. Other remedies for scabies may also help.

Learn more about scabies here.

Also known as atopic dermatitis, this common condition causes itchy, red, irritated skin that can sometimes develop bumps. In the long term, it can make the skin thicker, scaly, and flaky, as well as causing it to change color.

Scratching makes eczema worse and increases the risk of infection. Eczema occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, which prompt the immune system to overreact to certain triggers, such as laundry soap or sweating. It typically affects the face, elbows, knees, scalp, and backs of the hands.

Treatment

According to the National Eczema Association, treating eczema calls for a mix of self-care, OTC drugs, and prescription medications. People with eczema can identify and learn to manage or avoid triggers for their outbreaks.

Changing bathing practices and using moisturizer can also help. Prescription lotions, systemic medications, UVB light, and biologics can address more severe symptoms.

Learn more about the different types of eczema here.

Skin problems, such as itchy bumps on the skin similar to mosquito bites, can range from mild to severe.

Some issues, including bed bug bites, can be fleeting, while others, such as allergic reactions to certain foods, are signs of a permanent condition. However, most skin problems generally respond well to treatment.

If the symptoms do not improve with self-care practices, people should see a medical professional to determine what is causing the outbreak and how to treat it.

What to do if bitten by a mosquito and everything itches and itches

Health

June 27

You don’t have to develop willpower.

Why mosquito bites itch so much

Mosquitoes pierce the skin with a special mouth apparatus and suck blood through it. At this time, their saliva, which contains proteins foreign to humans, enters the skin. The immune system reacts to this and inflammation sets in, which manifests itself as an itchy pink bump.

Most people are slightly sensitive to mosquito saliva, so the reaction does not go beyond the bite. But for some, the immune system is more aggressive, so there is a lot of swelling, redness and soreness around. In this case, the temperature may rise, and the general condition may worsen.

How to relieve itching from mosquito bites

Although mosquito bites are very common, there is very little research on their treatment. The fact is that they heal so well: even if you do nothing, the discomfort from the bite will disappear in a couple of days. So scientists tend to focus on diseases that mosquitoes can carry.

This is why most recommendations are based on expert opinion and clinical experience.

Apply an ice cube

Ice slows down blood flow, which means it reduces the reaction to foreign protein – inflammation, pain, swelling and itching. Therefore, apply an ice pack wrapped in a light towel to the bite for at least 10 minutes. Another option is to rub the bump with an ice cube for 30 seconds.

Wipe the bite with an alcohol wipe

Alcohol causes proteins in mosquito saliva to break down, so the reaction should be less. Of course, this will only help immediately after the bite.

Apply calamine lotion

Calamine lotion reduces itching, so may also be useful against mosquito bites.

Apply OTC steroid

Corticosteroids reduce immune response. Therefore, inflammation, itching and pain at the bite sites become less. Apply a very thin layer of cream, such as a hydrocortisone-based cream, spot on the bite.

Apply Antihistamine Ointment

Histamine is a chemical released by immune system cells when it encounters an allergen. So apply antihistamine ointment on the bites to help reduce itching.

Take an over-the-counter antihistamine

For more severe reactions or more bites, you can take an over-the-counter antihistamine to reduce symptoms.

What folk methods can work

These methods have not been tested by scientists to reduce itching from bites. But some of this is used in other situations, and some of it has been tested by experience. So if they help you, use them.

Attach tea bag

The easiest way to apply to the bite is a tea bag that has been wrung out and cooled. You should not use a new one, so that it does not stain the skin.

In addition to ordinary tea, you can take chamomile, as it contains terpenoids and flavonoids, which have antioxidant and antihistamine properties.

Press the sachet against mosquito bites for 10 minutes and then wipe off any remaining tea with a clean towel. You can then put the bag in the refrigerator to make such compresses during the day.

Apply tea tree oil

Tea tree oil reduces inflammation and is said to help with mosquito bites. Remember that it is better not to abuse it, as it can lead to irritation, an allergic reaction and contact dermatitis.

Apply baking soda paste

Add just a little water to baking soda to make a paste. It must be applied pointwise to the bites so that they do not itch so much.

Wipe the bite with vinegar

This substance can also destroy proteins from mosquito saliva, so you can wipe a completely fresh puncture with it.

Apply Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Leaf Gel contains salicylic acid to help reduce itching and pain. So try spotting it on the bite.

Brush the bite with honey

Honey contains the catalase enzyme, which breaks down protein. Therefore, it can reduce inflammation slightly. In general, anoint the bites with honey, and cover the top with gauze so that nothing sticks to you.

Apply oatmeal

Gluten is said to soothe the skin. Therefore, you can grind the cereal in a blender, and then mix it with a little water to make a thick paste. It must be applied to the bite.

Apply pressure to the bite

Sounds strange, but pressure on the bite helps reduce itching. Someone generally makes two dents in the shape of a cross with a fingernail and thinks that this is the best way. Try different options, but try not to scratch the skin to the point of bleeding.

Grate the bite with an onion or banana

Not sure if it will help, but you can try. True, it is better not to leave onion juice on sensitive skin for a long time, because it can cause irritation.

Pat the bite

Instead of scratching, pat the bite. There is an opinion that in this way you will deceive the brain: it will think that you have scratched yourself.

Apply a hot spoon

Heat is thought to help break down proteins in saliva, but immunologist Catriona Nguyen-Robertson says it’s more likely that you’re shifting your focus away from itching again.

You should be careful with this method: if you overdo it, you may get burned.

When to see a doctor about mosquito bites

See a doctor if:

• your general condition worsens and flu-like symptoms develop;
• you are concerned about an excessive skin reaction;
• bites do not go away after a few days, but rather increase in size;
• you have damaged the bite, and an infection has developed there – it is red, sore, maybe there is a discharge.

Read also 🧐

• How to get rid of mosquitoes in the area
• 7 reasons why you are attractive to mosquitoes
• How to choose the right mosquito repellent for children

7 signs of skin cancer that no one pays attention to

Everyone knows that if a mole has changed size or color, you need to urgently run to an oncologist. But it happens that the body gives much less obvious signals that may indicate a malignant skin tumor.

16,000 Britons are diagnosed with skin cancer every year, and 2,500 of them eventually die, reports the Mirror. The good news is that 80 to 100 percent of cases found in stage 1 or 2 are easily treatable. How not to overlook the tumor, said dermatologist Ross Perry.

1. Unexplained scars

Basalioma. Photo © Wikimedia Commons

If out of nowhere you have a scar that grows in size, this may be a sign of a basalioma. It occurs on areas of the skin that are exposed to intense sun exposure. The scar may look like a waxy thickening. This is the most common form of skin cancer, but, fortunately, the least dangerous if detected early.

2. Eruptions on the eyelids

Basalioma on the eyelid. Photo © BOPSS

Eyelid malignancies may be brown, black, red, or flesh-colored. They can be hard to the touch, itchy and painful, or shiny and waxy. It is important to record all the changes that occur to them. To protect your eyelids from ultraviolet light, you need to wear sunglasses or a hat, and use sunscreen.

3. Black spots under nails

Subungual melanoma. Video screenshot: YouTube / The Doctors

Subungual melanoma can easily be confused with a bruise. Most often, it occurs under the thumbnail as a result of regular injury to this area. If left untreated, subungual melanoma can spread to other parts of the body.

4. Itching of the scalp

Squamous cell carcinoma. Photo © Brown University

If your head is constantly itching, take a close look at the skin under your hair. Scalp cancer is more common in men and there are three types. Firstly, it is a basalioma, but it is rare and not so dangerous. The second form is squamous cell carcinoma. It affects fair-skinned people who are often exposed to the sun, and appears as scaly red spots, open sores, rough, thickened, or warty areas of the skin, and raised, dimpled growths. But the most dangerous form is melanoma, and it looks like a normal mole.

5. Non-healing ulcers

Basalioma. Photo © Wikimedia Commons

These sores can look lumpy, dry and scaly. They can also itch and bleed. All these signs indicate the risk of developing basalioma.

6. Non-healing “insect bites”

Site of mosquito bite. Photo © Wikimedia Commons

Red bumps, which in the warm season can easily be mistaken for mosquito bites, can actually be something much more serious. If they have not gone away even after a few weeks, you should go to the doctor to rule out the risk of developing skin cancer.