What causes itchy bumps that look like mosquito bites. How to identify different skin conditions causing itchy rashes. What are the best treatments for various types of itchy skin bumps.

Common Causes of Itchy Bumps Resembling Mosquito Bites

Many people experience itchy bumps on their skin that resemble mosquito bites, even when they haven’t been exposed to mosquitoes. These bumps can be caused by various skin conditions, allergic reactions, and infections. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for proper treatment and relief.

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives, medically known as urticaria, are a common cause of itchy, raised bumps on the skin. They affect approximately 20% of people at some point in their lives. Hives typically appear as red, purple, or skin-colored welts that can appear and disappear quickly anywhere on the body.

Causes of hives include:

• Food allergies (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts, seafood)
• Latex allergies
• Pollen allergies
• Insect bites or stings
• Reactions to certain plants
• Medication allergies (e.g., sulfa drugs, aspirin)

How can you identify hives? Hives usually turn white or disappear temporarily when pressed. They can range in size from small spots to large patches and may change shape or move around on the body.

Bed Bug Bites: Sneaky Culprits of Itchy Skin

Bed bug bites can easily be mistaken for mosquito bites, as they often appear as small, itchy bumps on the skin. However, bed bug bites have some distinct characteristics that set them apart from other insect bites.

Identifying Bed Bug Bites

Are bed bug bites arranged in a specific pattern? Often, bed bug bites appear in a straight line or clustered pattern, although they can also occur in more random formations. It’s important to note that bed bug bites may not appear immediately after exposure, sometimes taking up to two weeks to manifest.

Signs that may indicate bed bug bites include:

• Itchy bumps in a linear or clustered pattern
• Presence of bed bugs on mattresses or sheets
• Dead bed bugs or their shed skins
• Blood spots on bedding
• A distinctive musty odor in the sleeping area

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, inflamed bumps that may resemble mosquito bites.

Common Triggers for Contact Dermatitis

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology reports that over 3,700 substances can cause contact allergies. Some common triggers include:

• Latex
• Certain metals (e.g., nickel)
• Household cleaning products
• Cosmetics and skincare products
• Poison ivy and other plants

How long does it take for contact dermatitis symptoms to appear? Typically, it takes 1-2 days for a reaction to develop after exposure to an allergen. Symptoms may persist for 2-3 weeks, even with treatment.

Scabies: Tiny Mites Causing Big Itches

Scabies is a skin condition caused by the human itch mite, which burrows into the top layer of skin and lays eggs. This infestation results in intense itching and a rash that can resemble mosquito bites.

Recognizing Scabies Symptoms

Scabies can be identified by the following characteristics:

• Intense itching, especially at night
• Small, itchy bumps on the skin
• Visible burrow tracks on the skin (appearing as raised, crooked, skin-colored lines)
• Rash commonly found in skin folds (between fingers, under breasts, in the genital area)

Is scabies contagious? Yes, scabies is highly contagious and can spread through close skin-to-skin contact or sharing personal items like bedding or clothing with an infected person.

Effective Treatments for Itchy Skin Bumps

The treatment for itchy bumps on the skin depends on the underlying cause. However, some general self-care practices can provide relief for most cases of itchy skin:

• Avoid scratching the affected area
• Take lukewarm baths or showers
• Use gentle, hypoallergenic soaps
• Apply cold compresses to soothe itchy areas
• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Limit sun exposure

Treating Hives

For hives, treatment options include:

• Avoiding known triggers
• Using over-the-counter antihistamines
• Applying anti-itch lotions
• Taking prescription medications for severe cases (e.g., stronger antihistamines or corticosteroids)

In cases of severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) may be necessary to prevent life-threatening reactions.

Managing Bed Bug Bites

To treat bed bug bites, focus on symptom relief:

• Apply over-the-counter antiseptic creams to prevent infection
• Use antihistamines to reduce itching
• Wash affected areas with soap and water
• Seek professional pest control services to eliminate bed bugs from your home

Treating Contact Dermatitis

For contact dermatitis, consider the following treatments:

• Apply cold compresses to soothe inflamed skin
• Use calamine lotion to reduce itching
• Take soothing baths with colloidal oatmeal
• Use over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams
• Take oral antihistamines for severe itching
• Consult a doctor for prescription medications if needed

Identifying and avoiding triggers is crucial for preventing future outbreaks of contact dermatitis.

Treating Scabies

Scabies requires medical treatment, which typically involves:

• Prescription scabicide medications (usually applied as a lotion or cream)
• Treating all household members and close contacts, even if they don’t show symptoms
• Washing all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water
• Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture thoroughly

Can scabies be cured completely? Yes, with proper treatment, scabies can be eliminated. However, itching may persist for several weeks after treatment due to the body’s allergic response to the mites.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Itchy Skin Bumps

While many cases of itchy skin bumps can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention:

• Symptoms persist for more than two weeks despite home treatment
• The rash is widespread or covers a large area of the body
• You experience signs of infection (e.g., fever, pus, or increasing redness)
• The itching is severe enough to disrupt sleep or daily activities
• You suspect scabies or another contagious skin condition
• You have a known severe allergy and experience symptoms of anaphylaxis

How can a dermatologist help with persistent itchy skin bumps? A dermatologist can provide a proper diagnosis, identify underlying causes, and recommend targeted treatments that may include prescription medications or specialized therapies.

Preventing Itchy Skin Bumps: Practical Tips for Everyday Life

While it’s not always possible to prevent itchy skin bumps, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Identify and avoid known allergens or irritants
2. Use hypoallergenic skincare products and laundry detergents
3. Keep your skin moisturized, especially in dry climates
4. Wear protective clothing when outdoors to prevent insect bites
5. Practice good hygiene and change bedding regularly to prevent bed bug infestations
6. Manage stress, as it can exacerbate certain skin conditions
7. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in skin-supporting nutrients

Can lifestyle changes help prevent recurring skin issues? Absolutely. Many skin conditions are influenced by factors such as diet, stress levels, and overall health. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve skin health and reduce the occurrence of itchy bumps.

Understanding the Impact of Itchy Skin on Quality of Life

Chronic itchy skin conditions can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. The constant urge to scratch can disrupt sleep, affect concentration, and lead to feelings of frustration or embarrassment. It’s important to address these issues not just from a physical health perspective, but also considering mental and emotional well-being.

Coping Strategies for Chronic Skin Conditions

If you’re dealing with a chronic skin condition that causes itchy bumps, consider the following coping strategies:

• Join support groups to connect with others experiencing similar issues
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
• Keep a symptom diary to identify patterns or triggers
• Work with a therapist to address any emotional impact of your skin condition
• Educate friends and family about your condition to build understanding and support

How can mindfulness practices help manage itchy skin? Mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety, which often exacerbate itching sensations. By focusing on the present moment and practicing relaxation, you may be able to reduce the urge to scratch and improve overall skin comfort.

In conclusion, while itchy bumps on the skin can be frustrating and uncomfortable, understanding their causes and appropriate treatments can help you manage symptoms effectively. By working with healthcare professionals, adopting good skincare habits, and addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of skin conditions, you can improve your skin health and overall well-being. Remember, persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a medical professional to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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.