Moles, medically known as nevi, are common skin growths that develop from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin. Most people have between 10 and 40 moles, and the vast majority of these spots are entirely benign. A normal mole is typically uniform in appearance and remains stable over time. Monitoring these growths is a preventative measure because a mole can, in rare cases, develop into melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Early detection through self-monitoring and professional examination is the most effective way to ensure a positive outcome.
Recognizing Signs that Require Immediate Attention
The most immediate reason to seek a professional skin check is noticing any rapid or concerning change in an existing mole or the sudden appearance of a new, unusual spot. Dermatologists recommend using the “ABCDE” method for monthly self-examinations to identify potentially problematic lesions. This mnemonic focuses on five specific characteristics that distinguish a normal mole from one that may be cancerous.
The ABCDE Method
The letter “A” stands for Asymmetry, meaning the two halves would not match in shape if a line were drawn through the mole. Benign moles are typically symmetrical. “B” represents Border irregularity, where the edges are blurred, ragged, notched, or scalloped, unlike the smooth, well-defined border of a common mole.
“C” refers to Color variation. While normal moles are generally one uniform shade of tan, brown, or black, a suspicious lesion may exhibit multiple colors, including red, white, blue, or black within the same spot. “D” stands for Diameter, suggesting that any mole larger than six millimeters—roughly the size of a pencil eraser—warrants closer inspection.
The most important sign is “E,” which stands for Evolving. This refers to any change in the mole’s size, shape, color, or elevation over a period of weeks or months. Any mole that bleeds, itches, crusts over, or feels painful should be prioritized for immediate professional evaluation. The rate of change is often the most important factor distinguishing a benign nevus from a malignant growth.
Determining Your Recommended Screening Frequency
Low Risk Individuals
For individuals who have few moles and no significant personal or family history of skin cancer, monthly self-examinations using the ABCDE method are recommended. For these low-risk individuals, a full-body professional skin examination is generally recommended every one to two years. This schedule establishes a baseline and allows a professional to check areas difficult to see during self-checks.
Moderate Risk Individuals
The recommended frequency becomes more intensive as risk factors increase. People with fair skin, light-colored hair and eyes, or those who have had significant, blistering sunburns are considered moderate risk. For these individuals, an annual professional skin check is advised to ensure early detection of any new or changing lesions.
High Risk Individuals
A personal history of melanoma or other non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, places a person in the highest-risk category. A strong family history of melanoma, especially in a first-degree relative, or having numerous atypical moles (dysplastic nevi), also necessitates a more vigilant schedule. In these cases, a dermatologist will recommend a skin check every three to six months, based on the elevated risk of developing a new primary melanoma or a recurrence.
Preparing for and Understanding a Professional Skin Check
Once you have determined the appropriate screening frequency, preparing for the professional examination can help maximize its effectiveness. Before your appointment, it is helpful to take inventory of your skin and note any specific spots that concern you. You should also be prepared to discuss your medical and family history of skin cancer.
To allow for the most thorough examination, it is recommended to remove all makeup, foundation, and nail polish from your fingers and toes before arriving. Skin cancers can sometimes appear beneath the nail bed, making a clear view of the nail plates and cuticles essential for a comprehensive assessment. Wearing your hair loose allows the physician to properly examine your entire scalp, which is a common site for sun damage.
During the appointment, you will change into a medical gown, and the dermatologist will perform a full-body check, visually inspecting your skin from head to toe. They will use a specialized handheld magnifying device called a dermatoscope, which illuminates and magnifies the mole. This allows for a detailed view of its structure and pigment patterns beneath the skin’s surface, helping distinguish between benign growths and concerning lesions.
If the physician finds a spot that appears suspicious, the next step is typically a biopsy. This involves taking a small sample of the tissue for laboratory analysis. The procedure involves removing part or all of the lesion under local anesthetic. The results of the biopsy will definitively determine if the mole is benign or malignant, allowing the physician to discuss any necessary follow-up treatment options.