Moles are incredibly common skin growths, and chances are, you’ve got more than a few. The average adult has between 10 and 40 moles scattered across their body. Most of these moles are completely harmless and remain unchanged throughout a person’s life. They can vary in shape, size, and colour appearing as flat or raised spots that are brown, black, or even flesh-toned. But while the majority of moles are benign, some can signal something more serious skin cancer, particularly melanoma, which is the most dangerous form.
That’s why it’s essential to stay vigilant. Knowing what’s normal for your skin and what isn’t can make all the difference when it comes to early detection and treatment. A mole that suddenly changes in appearance, starts to itch or bleed, or looks noticeably different from others could be an early warning sign.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Is this mole normal, or should I be worried?”, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key things dermatologists look for during a professional mole check, how to recognise suspicious changes in your moles, and how often you should be checking your skin both at home and with the help of an expert.
Many people assume that unless a mole is causing discomfort, it’s nothing to worry about. But that’s not always the case. Skin cancer doesn’t always hurt in fact, it often starts silently, without symptoms like pain or irritation. That’s why regular skin self-exams and routine dermatologist visits are crucial, even if everything seems fine. Understanding what’s normal for your skin and knowing how to spot the warning signs early can be life-saving. With skin cancer rates on the rise globally, staying informed and proactive is more important than ever.
What Do Dermatologists Look for During a Mole Check?
When you book a mole check with a dermatologist, you’re taking an important step in protecting your skin health. During the appointment, the dermatologist will conduct a full-body skin examination, carefully assessing all visible moles as well as other pigmented spots. They may use a specialised tool called a dermatoscope a handheld magnifier with a light which allows them to see details beneath the skin’s surface that aren’t visible to the naked eye. This helps them spot subtle changes that could signal the early stages of skin cancer.
One of the most reliable methods dermatologists use to evaluate moles is the ABCDE rule, which outlines five key characteristics that help distinguish between benign (harmless) moles and potentially cancerous ones. Here’s a more in-depth look at what each letter stands for:
1. Asymmetry
In a normal, healthy mole, both halves should look fairly similar if you were to draw a line through the middle. In contrast, a potentially dangerous mole may appear asymmetrical one half doesn’t match the other in shape or size. For example, one side may appear smooth and round, while the other looks irregular or lopsided. This lack of balance is a common warning sign of melanoma.
2. Border
The borders or edges of a benign mole are typically well-defined and smooth. On the other hand, moles with irregular, scalloped, or blurred edges may raise concern. Uneven borders could mean the cells are growing in a disorganised way, which is often seen in malignant or pre-cancerous lesions.
3. Colour
Most harmless moles are a single, uniform colour usually tan, brown, or dark brown depending on your skin tone. But if you notice a mole that contains multiple colours or shades (such as black, red, white, or even blue), it could be a red flag. Uneven pigmentation may suggest abnormal cell activity and warrants a closer look from a dermatologist.
4. Diameter
Size matters, especially when it comes to skin changes. Moles that are larger than 6 millimetres in diameter roughly the size of a pencil eraser are more likely to be atypical or problematic. However, some melanomas can be smaller than this, so size should always be considered in combination with the other ABCDE features.
5. Evolving
This is perhaps the most important factor to watch for. If a mole begins to evolve meaning it changes in any way over time this could be an early sign of melanoma. Changes in colour, size, shape, texture, or elevation are all reasons to have it examined. Even if a mole suddenly starts to itch, bleed, crust, or become tender, it’s worth getting it checked, even if it appears small or subtle.
When Should You Get a Mole Checked?
Although the majority of moles are completely harmless and remain stable over time, it’s important to stay aware of any new developments on your skin. Melanoma, the most serious and potentially life-threatening type of skin cancer, often begins as a new mole or a change in an existing one. Because early detection dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment, knowing when to seek professional help is essential.
So, how do you know when a mole deserves medical attention? Here are some key warning signs to watch for:
Look for These Warning Signs:
- Itching, bleeding, or crusting:
A healthy mole typically doesn’t cause discomfort. If a mole suddenly becomes itchy, starts to bleed without injury, or develops a crusty surface, it’s time to consult a dermatologist. These symptoms may suggest irritation or more serious changes occurring beneath the skin. - Noticeable changes in appearance:
Any mole that changes shape, increases in size, alters in colour, or starts to look significantly different from your other moles often referred to as the “ugly duckling” mole should be evaluated. Even subtle shifts over time can signal the early stages of skin cancer. - Persistent bleeding:
A mole that bleeds spontaneously, without being scratched or injured, should never be ignored. This could be a sign of abnormal cell growth or breakdown of the skin’s structure, and requires immediate medical assessment. - New growths in adulthood:
While new moles commonly appear in childhood or adolescence, the sudden appearance of a new mole in adulthood can be concerning especially after age 30. It’s worth having these evaluated to rule out any underlying conditions.
Don’t Skip Self-Exams
Between professional skin checks, performing regular self-examinations is a powerful tool for early detection. The more familiar you are with your own skin, the easier it becomes to notice when something has changed.
Here’s how to do a proper self-check:
- Use good lighting and a full-length mirror to examine your entire body, including hard-to-see areas like your back, the backs of your thighs, and the soles of your feet.
- Don’t forget your scalp, ears, and nails. Use a handheld mirror or ask a partner to help check your scalp and behind your ears.
- Keep track of your moles. Consider taking photos of any moles you want to monitor, so you can easily compare them over time and spot subtle changes.
- Check monthly. Aim to perform a thorough skin check once a month it only takes a few minutes and could save your life.
If you discover anything that seems unusual even if you’re unsure it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Book an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist for a professional opinion. It’s better to get peace of mind than to overlook a potential problem.
How Often Should You Get a Skin Check?
When it comes to preventing skin cancer, early detection is your best defence. That’s why regular skin checks both at home and with a professional play such a vital role in maintaining your skin health. But how often should you actually be seeing a dermatologist for a full-body skin exam?
For most adults, dermatologists recommend scheduling a professional skin check at least once a year. This annual visit allows your doctor to track any changes in your moles, detect abnormalities early, and remove any suspicious lesions before they become more serious. During the check, your dermatologist will use tools like a dermatoscope to closely inspect moles and other spots that may look unusual.
However, some individuals are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer and may need more frequent monitoring. If you fall into one of the high-risk categories, your dermatologist might recommend checks every six months or even quarterly, depending on your specific needs and medical history.
Who Should Consider More Frequent Skin Checks?
Certain factors can increase your chances of developing skin cancer, especially melanoma, which is known for its aggressive nature. You may need more frequent skin checks if you:
- Have fair or light skin, hair, and eyes:
People with lighter skin tones have less melanin, the pigment that offers some protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays. As a result, they’re more vulnerable to sun damage and skin cancers. - Have a history of frequent or severe sunburns:
Particularly burns during childhood or adolescence. Repeated sunburns can significantly increase your lifetime risk of skin cancer. - Have a large number of moles (50 or more):
The more moles you have, the higher the risk that one of them could become abnormal. Having many moles also makes it harder to notice subtle changes, so professional monitoring becomes essential. - Have atypical (dysplastic) moles:
These are moles that are larger than usual, have irregular borders or colouring, and often resemble melanoma. While they’re benign, they carry a higher risk of turning cancerous, especially when multiple are present. - Have a personal or family history of skin cancer:
If you or a close relative (such as a parent or sibling) have had melanoma or another form of skin cancer, your risk is significantly elevated. Inherited genetic mutations may also play a role in increasing susceptibility. - Have had previous skin cancer or precancerous lesions:
If you’ve been treated for skin cancer before such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma regular monitoring is critical to catch recurrences early or spot new growths. - Have a weakened immune system:
Immunosuppression, whether due to medications (e.g. following organ transplant) or medical conditions like HIV/AIDS, reduces your body’s ability to fight off abnormal cells increasing your risk of developing skin cancers.
Tailoring the Frequency to Your Risk
Ultimately, the frequency of your skin checks should be customised to your individual risk profile. During your first appointment, your dermatologist will assess your skin type, medical history, sun exposure habits, and the number and appearance of your moles. Based on this, they’ll create a screening schedule that makes sense for you.
Remember: skin cancer can often be treated successfully when caught early but the key is staying consistent with your checks. Whether it’s annually or more often, making skin exams a regular part of your health routine is a small step that could make a big difference.
Can Skin Supplements Help with Mole Prevention?
It’s natural to wonder whether skin supplements can play a role in preventing moles from turning cancerous or in stopping new ones from developing altogether. After all, with growing interest in vitamins and supplements for skin health, many people are looking for ways to boost their body’s defences from the inside out.
The short answer? While certain supplements can support overall skin function and repair, there’s currently no scientific evidence that any supplement can directly prevent moles or stop melanoma from forming. However, that doesn’t mean they’re without value. Some nutrients have been linked to skin protection and may help reduce the effects of UV damage one of the leading contributors to abnormal mole changes and skin cancer.
Let’s look at a few of the most researched nutrients:
Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays an essential role in skin cell growth, repair, and immune function. While it’s often synthesised in the skin through sun exposure, individuals trying to avoid UV damage may get their vitamin D through supplements or fortified foods instead. However, it’s important to strike a balance vitamin D supplementation should support your health, not come from unprotected sun exposure.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Found in fatty fish like salmon and in flaxseeds, omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce sun-induced skin inflammation and support the skin’s barrier function. While they don’t prevent moles or melanoma, they may reduce the severity of UV-induced damage, especially in those with frequent sun exposure.
Antioxidants (like Vitamins C & E, Selenium, and Polyphenols)
Antioxidants help neutralise free radicals unstable molecules created by sun exposure that can damage skin cells. Some studies suggest that antioxidant-rich diets may reduce oxidative stress in the skin and promote cellular repair. Supplements or foods containing vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and green tea extract may offer some level of skin protection, though more research is needed to confirm long-term cancer-prevention effects.
Supplements Are Supportive Not a Substitute
It’s important to understand that supplements should not be seen as a substitute for proven protective measures. Even if you take skin-supporting vitamins regularly, they are not a replacement for sun protection or regular skin monitoring.
To truly reduce your risk of mole-related issues and skin cancer:
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every day, even on cloudy days.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors or after swimming or sweating.
- Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves.
- Avoid peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), when UV radiation is strongest.
- Stay out of tanning beds, which expose your skin to high levels of artificial UV rays.
Supplements can be part of a well-rounded skincare and wellness strategy, but they should always be used alongside not instead of preventative skin practices.
Final Thought: Stay One Step Ahead of Skin Cancer
Your moles can tell you a lot about the health of your skin. It’s important to keep track of any changes and schedule regular skin checks with a dermatologist in London. If you have any concerns about a mole or skin changes, don’t wait schedule a visit today.
You can get in touch with us to book a consultation with our expert mole check clinic in London. We offer thorough and compassionate skin exams to help you stay on top of your skin health and detect any potential concerns early.
References:
- Johnson, M.M., Leachman, S.A., Aspinwall, L.G. et al., 2017. Skin cancer screening: recommendations for data‑driven screening guidelines and a review of the US Preventive Services Task Force controversy. Melanoma Management, 4(1), pp.13–37. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2217/mmt-2016-0022
- Mangione, C.M., Barry, M.J., Nicholson, W.K. et al. (USPSTF), 2023. Screening for skin cancer: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. JAMA, 329(15), pp.1290–1295.
https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org - Wojcik, K.Y., 2017. Conflicts and contradictions in current skin cancer screening recommendations: a review of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer guidelines. Current Dermatology Reports, 6(1), pp.1–7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7951956
- Okhovat, J.P., Beaulieu, D., Tsao, H. et al., 2018. The first 30 years of the American Academy of Dermatology SPOTme skin cancer screening program: analysis of risk‑factor profiles and screening findings. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 79(3), pp.394–401.e4.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6454210 - Swetter, S.M., Gershenwald, J.E., Guy, G.P. Jr. et al., 2019. Guidelines of care for the management of primary cutaneous melanoma. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 80(1), pp.208–250.e1. https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(18)32588-X/fulltext