Be Aware: If You Notice These Skin Changes, See a Dermatologist

Most people have moles, freckles, or small skin marks that are completely harmless. For many, these spots are simply part of their natural appearance and nothing to worry about. However, subtle changes in these marks can sometimes serve as early warnings of skin cancer, including melanoma. While that may sound alarming, the encouraging reality is that when caught in its earliest stages, most forms of skin cancer are highly treatable and often curable. In fact, regular self-exams and routine dermatologist visits can transform fear into peace of mind by catching potential problems before they become serious.

Melanoma is a type of cancer that begins in the pigment-producing cells of the skin called melanocytes. Compared with more common skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is less frequent but more dangerous because of its ability to spread rapidly to other parts of the body. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 100,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed every year in the United States alone. Yet there is also good news: when detected early, melanoma has an excellent outlook, with a five-year survival rate of over 99 percent. This fact highlights how critical awareness and early detection truly are.

To help people recognize suspicious skin changes, doctors often recommend the ABCDE rule. Each letter stands for a key warning sign to watch for in a mole or spot: A for asymmetry, when one half looks different from the other; B for border irregularity, meaning edges that are ragged or blurred; C for color variation, with shades of brown, black, red, or even blue appearing within the same mole; D for diameter larger than 6 millimeters, about the size of a pencil eraser; and E for evolving, which refers to any change in size, shape, color, or new symptoms like bleeding or itching. If a mole displays even one of these warning signs, it’s best to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible. Because many skin cancers are painless in their early stages, visual checks become the most reliable tool for early detection.

Beyond the ABCDE rule, there are other warning signs to remain alert to. New spots that appear after the age of 30 should be viewed with caution. Sores that do not heal, moles that become painful or tender, shiny or pearly bumps that may signal basal cell carcinoma, and rough or scaly patches that may suggest squamous cell carcinoma all deserve medical attention. While these growths are most commonly found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, arms, neck, and shoulders, skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body. That’s why a full-body check, including areas like the scalp, soles of the feet, and even under the nails, is important.

Certain factors can increase a person’s risk of developing skin cancer. These include frequent sun exposure, the use of tanning beds, fair or light-colored skin, a history of severe sunburns, a family history of melanoma, a weakened immune system, and having a large number of moles or unusual, atypical moles. While individuals with darker skin tones are less likely to develop melanoma, it can and does occur, often being diagnosed later and therefore at a more advanced stage. For this reason, awareness and vigilance matter for everyone, regardless of skin tone.

The best protection is a combination of prevention and regular monitoring. Dermatologists recommend monthly self-checks in front of a mirror, annual professional skin exams, and daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. In addition, avoiding tanning beds, seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, and wearing protective clothing such as hats and long sleeves are practical steps that greatly reduce risk.

Ultimately, mindful observation—not fear—is the strongest defense against skin cancer. By paying attention to the signals your skin provides and adopting healthy protective habits, you can significantly lower your risk while maintaining confidence and peace of mind.