Familiarizing yourself with your skin and routinely checking moles and other growths can help you recognize abnormal changes that may indicate skin cancer. Skin cancer has high cure rates when caught early, so getting into the habit of skin check is critical. As per experts like Sun Doctors Australia establishing what your skin and moles typically look like will give you a baseline for comparison during future checks.

Getting familiar with your skin and moles

It’s helpful to know what distinguishes ordinary moles from atypical ones. Common moles are usually smaller, with smooth, round, and symmetrical shapes. Atypical moles often have irregular shapes and color variations. Use the ABCDE guide when assessing moles:

• Asymmetry – one half doesn’t match the other half
• Border irregularity – ragged, notched, or blurred edges
• Color that is not uniform
• Diameter greater than 6mm
• Evolution – any detectable changes over time What to look for when checking skin and moles?

When examining your skin, watch for:

Changes in size

Moles that have grown significantly or started small and become larger may be cause for concern.

Changes in shape

If a mole’s shape morphs, especially if edges become irregular, bring it to your dermatologist’s attention.

Changes in color

Variations in color or shades of brown/black in a mole can indicate abnormal cells.

Itching or bleeding

Itchy, inflamed skin or moles that bleed also warrant examination.

Telling the difference between normal and abnormal changes

What’s considered a normal mole transformation, and what crosses into a problematic change? As we age, some fluctuation in moles is expected. Examples include:

What’s considered normal:

• Gradual lightening in color of a mole
• Tiny moles slowly fading away altogether
• When to be concerned:
• A mole getting significantly darker
• Rapid growth in size
• A wound or sore arising where a mole existed

Don’t hesitate to point out any odd or sudden alterations to your dermatologist. Better safe than sorry.

Next steps if you spot changes

If self-examination reveals suspicious moles or skin growths:

Seeing your dermatologist

Schedule an appointment promptly. Your dermatologist can closely inspect the area and determine if testing is needed.

Biopsy

A biopsy of abnormal tissue might be performed to check for cancer cells. This straightforward office procedure involves numbing the area, taking a sample, and stitching the site.

Tips for an effective skin check

These techniques can improve your at-home checks:

Using mirrors

Use a large mirror in a brightly lit room. Check your entire body, including hard to see areas, and utilize a hand mirror for places like behind legs or your back.

Ask someone to assist

Have a family member examine places you can’t easily see yourself.

Use a checklist

Print or download a body map indicating what to assess so you remember to check everywhere. Carefully monitoring your skin can help rapidly detect changes of concern, when skin cancer is very treatable. Speak to your doctor about appropriate frequency for self-checks and professional skin exams based on your risk factors. Catching concerning alterations right away offers peace of mind.

Conclusion

Getting to know your skin and routinely checking moles and marks yourself can help catch worrisome changes early. When you notice transformations in existing spots, or new growths that differ from your norm, promptly consult a dermatologist. Skin cancer can often be cured when found early and treated quickly.