Basal cell carcinoma is the most common non-melanoma skin cancer in the United States and is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed each year. It most commonly occurs due to chronic sun-exposure, most frequently the head and neck. Many underexplored environmental and genetic factors contribute to its development. Although these cancers are typically slow growing and have an indolent course with low potential for significant local or distant invasion, there are aggressive subtypes. Treatment is mainly surgical, but other non-invasive methods of treatment are available. Patients should have close follow up and be educated to avoid sun-exposure and other contributing factors.