Where to Get the Best Full Body Skin Exam in St. Petersburg

Quick answer: The best full body skin exam in St. Petersburg comes from a board certified provider who actually takes the time to check you head to toe, not just the spots you point out. My Skin, led by Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC, offers full body skin cancer screenings with same day biopsies when something looks suspicious, no referral needed.

If you've never had a proper skin check, it's easy to picture it as a quick glance at a mole you're already worried about. A real full body exam is a lot more thorough than that, and honestly, that thoroughness is the whole point. Florida sun does not play favorites, and skin cancer can show up in places you'd never think to check yourself, like your scalp or the bottom of your feet.

What a Good Skin Exam Should Actually Include

Not every screening is created equal. Before you book anywhere, here's what to look for.

• A true head to toe check. That means your scalp, behind your ears, your back, between your toes, and any

  where else you'd probably skip on your own.

• Enough time to do it right. A rushed five minute visit isn't going to catch the small stuff. A thorough exam takes a while, and that's a good sign, not a bad one.

• A provider trained to spot the subtle stuff. Some of the more dangerous spots don't look dramatic at all. Experience matters here.

• The ability to biopsy on the spot. If something looks off, you shouldn't have to book a whole second appointment just to get it checked further.

What This Looks Like at My Skin

Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC has spent 9 years focused on dermatology, and skin cancer detection is a big part of that. Every full body skin exam she performs covers the areas patients tend to forget about, and she walks through the ABCDE warning signs on anything that catches her eye.

If a spot needs a closer look, she can usually biopsy it right then, so you're not stuck waiting around for answers. You can read more about what the exam itself covers on My Skin's skin cancer examination page.

How Often Should You Actually Go?

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends most adults have a professional skin exam once a year, with more frequent visits for anyone at higher risk, meaning fair skin, a lot of moles, a personal or family history of skin cancer, or a lot of time spent outdoors. You can read their full guidance at aad.org.

A Word From Leah

Leah's take on this is pretty simple. Patients shouldn't have to guess whether something is worth mentioning. Her approach is to just check everything, so nothing gets missed because someone felt awkward bringing it up. Catching something early is almost always the difference between a minor procedure and a much bigger one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get a full body skin exam in St. Petersburg?

My Skin offers full body skin cancer screenings at its St. Petersburg office, led by Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC. You don't need a referral to book one.

How long does a full body skin exam take?

A thorough exam usually takes longer than people expect, often 20 to 30 minutes, since it involves checking areas most people never think to look at themselves.

Do I need a referral for a skin cancer screening?

No. You can schedule a screening with us directly without a referral from a primary care provider.

What happens if something suspicious is found?

If a spot needs further evaluation, a biopsy can often be done the same day, so you get answers faster instead of waiting on a second visit.

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical provider regarding any changing or concerning skin growth.