Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. The reassuring part: most BCCs are slow-growing and very treatable when diagnosed early. The important part: untreated BCCs can continue to expand and may become more difficult to treat — especially on the face.
This page explains BCC in plain English and links you to the two main BCC pathways we manage:
- Superficial BCC (sBCC) — often flatter and more amenable to non-surgical options in selected cases
- Invasive BCC — deeper types that usually require surgery (or carefully selected alternatives)
[Book a targeted spot check (1–3 spots)]
[Book a full skin check]
Quick links
- [Superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC)]
- [Invasive basal cell carcinoma]
- [Skin cancer types]
- [Non-surgical treatment of selected non-melanoma skin cancers]
What does BCC look like?
BCC can be subtle. Common patterns include:
- a pearly or shiny bump (sometimes with small surface blood vessels)
- a non-healing sore that crusts, bleeds, then partly settles… and repeats
- a pink scaly patch that doesn’t go away
- a scar-like, firm area (often pale, smooth, or slightly indented)
- a spot that is slowly enlarging over months
BCCs commonly occur on sun-exposed areas: face, ears, scalp, neck, shoulders, and upper chest/back — but they can occur anywhere.
If you have a spot that’s been present for weeks to months and isn’t behaving like a simple pimple, eczema, or a healing scratch, it’s worth checking.
[Book a targeted spot check (1–3 spots)]
Is BCC dangerous?
BCCs rarely spread to other organs. However, they can:
- grow wider and deeper over time
- damage nearby structures (especially on the nose, eyelids, lips, and ears)
- become more complex to remove and reconstruct if delayed
- recur if not adequately treated
So BCC is usually not dangerous in the “metastatic” sense — but it can be locally destructive if ignored.
How BCC is diagnosed
A good assessment usually includes:
- clinical examination
- dermoscopy (magnified assessment of lesion patterns)
- biopsy when needed to confirm type and guide treatment
If you’re not sure whether you need a full skin check or a focused assessment, choose based on your situation:
- 1–3 spots you’re worried about:
[Book a targeted spot check] - Many lesions, lots of sun damage, or a history of skin cancer:
[Book a full skin check]
Treatment overview (high-level)
BCC treatment is tailored to:
- subtype (superficial vs invasive)
- location (face vs trunk/limbs)
- size and margins
- previous treatments (new vs recurrent)
- your preferences around downtime and scarring
Common options include:
- Surgery
- Non-surgical options for selected superficial BCC, which may include topical treatments or in-clinic therapies (explained in Superficial BCC and Targeted Skin Spot Check (Up to 3 Lesions))
If you’ve been told you have a “BCC” but you’re unsure what subtype it is, we can explain your pathology report clearly and map out options.
FAQ
Can BCC go away on its own?
No. It may crust, bleed, or look better temporarily, but BCC typically persists and slowly enlarges without treatment.
Is BCC always caused by sun?
Sun exposure is a major driver, but not the only factor. Skin type, cumulative UV exposure, genetics, and immune function all contribute.
Does BCC spread?
It’s very uncommon. The main risk is local growth and increasing treatment complexity over time.
What happens if I ignore it for a year?
Many BCCs will get larger and can extend deeper. On the face, this can mean a bigger procedure and more complex reconstruction.
Should I book a spot check or a full skin check?
- Spot check: ideal for 1–3 concerning lesions
- Full skin check: best for multiple lesions, high-risk history, or reassurance