There are a multitude of malignant neoplasms that can, with the right genetic predisposition and exposure, affect the human body. The most common of these malignancies are the nonmelanoma skin cancers. There are two main forms of nonmelanoma skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Of the two, squamous cell carcinoma is the second most prevalent but is potentially more devastating and life-threatening form of nonmelanoma skin cancer. This article describes the incidence, genetics, and etiology of squamous cell carcinoma. Also, this article defines squamous cell carcinoma stages of progression from precancerous to malignant and the various treatment modalities that are used in each stage of development. Finally, this article discusses the various forms of squamous cell carcinoma and the physiological changes that occur within the skin because of this malignancy.