Are you worried about skin moles? Whether you have had moles for years or are noticing the development of new moles, you might be worried they are a sign of a larger problem.
This is a common concern with skin moles. Although many are harmless, some can be signs of melanoma, a type of skin cancer that causes thousands of deaths every year.
Fortunately, by checking your skin regularly and knowing the signs of abnormal moles, you can increase your chances of catching a small problem before it becomes a serious health condition. If you are wondering what to look for and when to get your moles checked, this short and simple guide is for you.
What Are Skin Moles?
A skin mole is a growth on your skin that is usually black or brown. However, you might also find blue, pink, tan, and red moles on your skin.
These growths are caused by clusters of pigmented skin and are usually smooth and slightly raised. Many times, they are confused for warts and skin tags.
Signs of Normal Moles
The growth of moles is common and occurs all over the skin. Benign moles are generally round, evenly colored, smooth around the edges, and flat or slightly raised. While they are usually less than ¼ in diameter, some normal moles can grow larger.
Signs of Abnormal Moles
The early-stage skin cancer mole looks quite different than a normal mole. They usually have at least one or two of the ABCDE features. These features include an asymmetrical shape, an uneven border, uneven color, more than ¼ in diameter in size, and evolving size, color, shape, or height.
How To Complete a Self-Exam
One of the best ways to be proactive about skin cancer moles is to complete a self-exam monthly. You can do this by using a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror in a well-lit room.
Examine the surface of your skin, making a note of any growths, blemishes, and more. Do this regularly and make sure to note any changes in your skin.
When To See a Doctor
If you notice any skin moles to worry about during your self-exam, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor will examine the mole and give you a course of mole treatment if the mole is a sign of a serious problem.
Skin Moles: This Is What To Look For and When To Get Checked
By reading this guide about skin moles, you can be proactive about your skin health.
In this guide, you will learn what skin moles are and what they aren’t. You will also learn how to spot a benign mole and an abnormal one. Follow the instructions for a self-exam to find out if you need to visit a doctor for treatment.
In short, this guide will show you what to look for and when to get your skin moles checked.
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