Look over your skin for any new or changing moles, spots, or lesions. Use a mirror to check hard-to-see areas, such as the soles of the feet, between your toes, back, ears, and genital areas. Ask a friend or family member to help you check your scalp.
To tell whether a mole is exhibiting signs of melanoma, remember your ABCDEFs: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolution, and Funny Looking.
Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not look like the other.
Border: The mole’s border is irregular or blurry.
Color: The mole is multi-colored.
Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters, about the size of a pencil eraser.
Evolution: The mole has started to change in one or more of the categories listed above.
Funny Looking: The mole looks different or stands out from the rest.
It may also help to take periodic pictures of the area to document any changes over time.
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment to see your dermatologist and have the growth checked out.