It is very important to consistently check your moles for changes in color, texture, and shape. When suspicious of a changed mole, never hesitate to visit your local dermatologist.

But what would be considered “suspicious”? And what are you or a doctor looking for when checking moles for changes?

When you or a doctor is checking a mole the following should be considered, as recommended by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery:
A – asymmetrical or uneven shape. One half of the mole is different from the other half.
B – irregular border. Edges may be ragged or blurred.
C – changes in color, or uneven color. The mole may be brown, red, tan, or black.
D – diameter. The mole is large – one-fourth inch or bigger.
E – evolving. Report any change in a mole’s size, shape, elevation or feel.

If you have a sore that doesn’t seem to be healing, if a mole grows, or changes from pale to dark in color, or if an abnormally shaped (not circular) mole appears to change, make an appointment with a doctor. If the doctor doesn’t have any appointments available, tell the nurse that you have a suspicious spot that you would like to get checked out. They should be able to get you in relatively quickly.