What does a Basal Cell Carcinoma look like?

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See real examples of how Basal Cell Carcinoma can appear on the skin, and explore the treatment options available for managing and removing BCC effectively.

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What does a Basal Cell Carcinoma look like?

Basal Cell Carcinoma unfortunately does not always look the same, and they can be difficult to spot and diagnose, even for specialists. When a basal cell carcinoma first starts, it may only look like a tiny pink blemish. As they grow, BCCs sometimes go through a classic pathway of ‘getting worse and better again’. When they flare up, the BCC is easier to see, and may look like a simple skin spot or scar. They may itch, have a scaly surface, and bleed (a classic description is a spot that bleeds when drying yourself with a towel). The ‘flaring’ phase may last a few weeks, then the BCC goes quiet again and can be very hard to see. The roots, though, are still present and although it looks like it has gone, it has not. The way a basal cell carcinoma looks as it develops over time (months or even years) often depends on the growth type. There are a number of different types of BCC, but the most common types are described below….. 

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Nodular Basal Cell Carcinoma

These are the ‘classic’ form of basal cell carcinoma, and the type most often described on websites or in textbooks. Nodular basal cell carcinoma often has a red, dome-shaped appearance, and vessels (little veins or arteries) may be seen on their surface. In certain lights, nodular basal cell carcinomas may have a slight sheen to them, described by doctors as ‘pearliness’.

Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

Superficial basal cell carcinomas are, as their name suggests, on the very upper surface of the skin and have not yet started to grow deeper. These have a flat, pink appearance and can occasionally be scaly. The superficial BCCs may sometimes be confused with other conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. They may continue to grow in the very superficial part of the skin, and can get to a few centimetres in diameter, but can also start to grow deeper and look like the other types of BCC.

Morphoeic Basal Cell Carcinoma

The morphoeic basal cell carcinomas can be extremely hard to see and diagnose. These tend to be quite inconspicuous, and often look like indistinct scarring. Morphoeic basal cell carcinomas can become quite large before they are eventually noticed, usually when they start to bleed or form crusts (scabs). Fortunately they are a rarer form of basal cell carcinoma.

Infiltrative Basal Cell Carcinoma

Under a microscope, these look the same as the morphoeic basal cell carcinomas. On the skin though, the infiltrative BCCs can ulcerate, bleed and have crusting at an earlier stage. These are more commonly found than the morphoeic forms. 

View Pictures of Basal Cell Carcinomas

See real examples of how Basal Cell Carcinoma can appear on the skin, and explore the treatment options available for managing and removing BCC effectively.

Questions answered about what Basal Cell Carcinoma looks like

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the appearance of Basal Cell Carcinoma, how it changes over time, and when to seek expert assessment.

What are the early signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) may begin as a small pink mark, shiny bump, or dry patch that doesn’t heal. Mr. Tehrani is highly experienced in identifying these subtle early signs, even in hard-to-spot cases.
Can BCCs look different from case to case?
Yes — BCCs vary in appearance depending on their type and location. Some resemble scars, others look like spots or scaly patches. Mr. Tehrani regularly diagnoses and treats all types, including rare and difficult-to-detect forms.
What does a nodular BCC look like?
Nodular BCCs are often dome-shaped, red or pearly, and may show visible blood vessels. They are one of the most common types treated by Mr. Tehrani using Mohs surgery for precise removal.
How can I tell if a skin mark might be cancerous?
Persistent skin marks that itch, bleed, or change in appearance over time should be assessed by a specialist. Mr. Tehrani offers expert evaluation and tailored treatment for suspected BCCs.
Why is it important to see a BCC specialist like Mr. Tehrani?
BCCs can mimic other skin conditions and may go unnoticed. As a leading Mohs and Plastic Surgeon, Mr. Tehrani provides accurate diagnosis and treatment with a focus on preserving appearance and ensuring complete removal.

Important information

Mr Tehrani is one of the UK’s leading Mohs and Reconstructive Surgeons, with a reputation for providing expert, patient-focused skin cancer care. If you have concerns about a skin lesion or are seeking specialist treatment, please get in touch — we’re here to help.

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Hamid Tehrani, Consultant Plastic & Mohs Surgeon

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Mr Tehrani sees patients from across the UK and abroad. He is based in the North-West

Support mail: info@mohs-surgeon.co.uk

Opening Hours: Mon -Sat: 7.00am – 19.00pm

St Helens/ Whiston: 0151 430 1901
Fairfield: 01744 746436
Circle Cheshire Clinic: 01606 218278

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