Board-Certified Dermatologist | 34+ Years Experience
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer and can develop on areas of the skin that receive sun exposure as well as areas that are less exposed to the sun. Early evaluation of suspicious or changing skin lesions can help identify skin cancer and determine whether further treatment is needed.
At Yolanda C. Holmes, M.D., P.C., Dr. Holmes provides dermatologic evaluation and skin cancer screening in Washington, DC. As a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience, Dr. Holmes evaluates suspicious moles, growths, and other skin changes and recommends appropriate next steps based on each patient's individual needs.
Or call us: 202-737-6800
Skin cancer develops when abnormal skin cells grow in an uncontrolled way. Different types of skin cancer can behave differently and may require different approaches to diagnosis and treatment.
The most common types include:
Other, less common types of skin cancer can also occur.
Skin cancer can appear in different ways. Signs that deserve dermatologic evaluation may include:
Dermatologists often use the ABCDE characteristics to help identify moles or pigmented lesions that may need further evaluation:
Not every skin cancer follows the ABCDE pattern. If you notice a new or changing lesion, a dermatologic evaluation is appropriate.
A skin cancer screening involves examining the skin for suspicious moles, growths, lesions, or other changes.
Dr. Holmes may evaluate areas of the skin that concern you as well as other areas where skin cancer can develop.
If a lesion appears suspicious, additional evaluation or testing may be recommended.
Consider scheduling an evaluation if you notice:
You don't need to determine whether a lesion is cancerous on your own. A dermatologist can evaluate the area and determine whether further assessment is needed.
Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones. Although skin cancer may be less common in people with darker skin, it can still occur and may sometimes be diagnosed at a later stage.
Skin cancers can also develop in areas that receive less sun exposure, including the palms, soles, and areas around the nails.
Regular skin awareness and evaluation of new or changing lesions are important for everyone, including patients with skin of color.
Learn more about Dermatology for Skin of Color in Washington, DC →
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but certain factors can increase risk, including:
Your individual risk depends on your personal and family history and other factors.
While not every case of skin cancer can be prevented, protecting your skin from excessive UV exposure can help reduce your risk.
Helpful habits include:
If a skin lesion appears suspicious, a dermatologist may recommend additional evaluation to determine what it is.
Depending on the lesion and clinical findings, this may include further examination or a skin biopsy. If skin cancer is confirmed, additional evaluation may be recommended to determine the appropriate treatment approach.
Learn more about Skin Cancer Treatment →
Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type of cancer, its location, size, characteristics, and other individual factors.
Treatment may involve removal of the cancerous tissue or other therapies depending on the diagnosis.
If skin cancer is diagnosed, Dr. Holmes can discuss the appropriate next steps and treatment options.
Explore Skin Cancer Treatment →
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Board-Certified Dermatologist
with 34+ years experience
Comprehensive Skin Evaluations
for suspicious moles and growths
Individualized Recommendations
based on your skin and risk factors
Experience with All Skin Types
including patients with skin of color
Convenient Location
1737 20th Street NW, Washington, DC
Recognized
2025 Best Dermatologist in Dupont Circle
Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC.
Dr. Holmes evaluates a wide range of skin concerns, including suspicious moles, growths, and changing skin lesions. Her approach focuses on careful evaluation and individualized recommendations based on each patient's needs.
Learn more about Dr. Holmes →
If you've noticed a new or changing mole, growth, or other skin lesion, don't try to diagnose it yourself. A dermatology evaluation can help determine whether further assessment is needed.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening in Washington, DC
