Whether you’re hiking, gardening, or simply enjoying time outside, it’s important to protect your skin. At Dr. Ben Wiese’s clinic, our team is dedicated to caring for your skin’s health and wellbeing. Regular skin checks play a key role in spotting early signs of skin cancer, when it’s most treatable. These check-ups also help identify and monitor any suspicious moles or changes in your skin, while also providing personalized advice to keep your skin healthy.
In this post, we’ll explain the difference between normal moles and concerning moles, what skin cancer spots can look like, and how early detection can make all the difference.
The Importance of Early Detection
Catching skin cancer early is one of the most important factors in successful treatment. When found in its early stages, skin cancer is usually confined to the outer layers of skin. This makes removal simpler and lowers the risk of it spreading. Early treatment dramatically improves your chances of a full recovery.
On the other hand, if skin cancer goes unnoticed and spreads, treatment becomes more complex and less effective.
That’s why regular self-checks and professional skin examinations are so important. By keeping an eye on your skin, and watching for new moles, changing spots, or sores that won’t heal, you take an active role in your health.
Being vigilant can lead to early action, reducing the risk of complications and helping ensure the best possible outcome.
Normal Moles vs. Cancerous “Moles”
Understanding the difference between normal moles and potential skin cancer is key to early detection. Take note of the moles on your skin and watch for changes over time.
- Normal moles are usually symmetrical, have smooth borders, a uniform colour, and are small (under 6mm). They tend to stay the same over time.
- Suspicious “moles”, potentially melanomas, tend to show some or all of the ABCDE warning signs, which we’ll explain below. If a mole looks different from the others or changes over time, it’s worth having it checked by a healthcare professional.
Regular self-exams and visits to a specialist can help catch potential problems early.
The ABCDEs of Skin Cancer Detection
The ABCDE method is a simple, effective way to remember what to look for during a skin check:
A – Asymmetry
Normal moles are symmetrical. If you draw a line through the middle, both halves should match. Melanoma spots are often uneven or asymmetrical. This irregularity signals abnormal cell growth.
B – Border
Healthy moles have smooth, clear borders. Watch out for moles with irregular, scalloped, notched, or blurred edges. This indicates uncontrolled cell proliferation.
C – Colour
Normal moles are usually a single shade of brown, tan, or black. Moles with multiple colours, like red, white, blue, or varying shades of brown or black, can be a warning sign.
D – Diameter
Benign moles are typically smaller than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser). Larger moles, or those that are growing, should be checked.
E – Evolving
If a mole changes in size, shape, colour, or develops new symptoms like itching, bleeding, or crusting, it’s time to see a healthcare provider. An itchy mole, in particular, can be a sign to take seriously.
Melanoma Canada also offers helpful visuals and more information about the ABCDE method if you’d like to learn more.
Other Signs of Skin Cancer to Look Out For
In addition to the ABCDE method, keep an eye out for these changes. They include, but aren’t limited to:
- Non-healing sores: Persistent sores, that you don’t irritate, that fail to heal within a few weeks may be basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas.
- Spreading pigmentation: Pigment that extends from the border of a mole into the surrounding skin can be a sign of melanoma.
- Changes in sensation: New or altered sensations, such as tenderness, pain, or numbness, in a mole or skin lesion.
- Changes in surface: Surface alterations, including bleeding, oozing, scaling, or the appearance of lumps or bumps, are all signs to watch for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about suspicious moles and skin cancer prevention.
What do melanoma spots look like?
Melanoma spots or “lesions” can vary widely but often present with asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colours, a diameter larger than 6mm, and changes over time.
Can benign lesions turn cancerous?
Most benign lesions stay harmless. However, atypical moles (called dysplastic nevi) can increase your risk of developing melanoma, so regular monitoring is important.
What should I do if I have an itchy mole?
If you notice an itchy mole, it’s best to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Try your best to moisturize it, without scratching or irritating it any further.
Can I get my whole body checked for moles?
Yes! Dermatologists and skin cancer doctors can perform full-body skin exams to check for suspicious moles or lesions. Be sure to check out our blog post on mole mapping to learn more about the latest technology for monitoring moles.
Is mole mapping the same as a skin check?
Mole mapping involves taking digital images of your moles to track changes over time. While a skin check is a visual exam by your doctor or skin cancer physician, mole mapping adds extra detail and accuracy using advanced technology.
Final Thoughts
Keeping an eye on the moles and spots on your skin, and knowing what changes to watch for, can make a real difference. Regular skin checks, both at home and with a professional, are an important part of staying healthy.
If you’re concerned about a mole or would like a full skin examination, don’t hesitate to reach out. No referral is needed – simply call the clinic or fill out our contact form, and we’ll get back to you.
Early detection is key to catching skin cancer when it’s most treatable. Book your appointment today, we’re here to help!