Surface selective photoacoustic (PA) medical imaging is introduced. Surface selective PA imaging is responsive to surface features and does not image sub-surface features, in contrast to conventional PA imaging. The surface PA signal can be considerably larger than the bulk PA signal, for an air-coupled (or gas-coupled) acoustic transducer. Distinguishing these two signals based on time of arrival at the transducer can further distinguish the two signals. This approach provides numerous advantages. Non-contact imaging simplifies and expedites imaging, and can serve as a replacement for visual inspection by physicians. Applications include skin screening and endoscopy.