Many people tend to overlook their moles unless they’re in a visible or aesthetically disruptive area, such as the face. However, it’s crucial to monitor regular moles because these seemingly innocuous spots can potentially develop into a dangerous type of skin cancer known as melanoma. At our Keller Dermatology Clinic, the board-certified skin specialists perform comprehensive checks, carefully examining any moles that appear unusual. If you’re concerned about a mole or want it removed for cosmetic reasons, contact our office and schedule a consultation.
Moles are clusters of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) that appear as growths on the skin. They are very common, with most people having at least a few, and can range in color from your natural skin tone to shades of pink, blue, brown, or black. Moles usually begin to appear in childhood and can grow throughout adolescence. New moles developing in adulthood may be a potential sign of melanoma and should be assessed by a qualified dermatologist.
Routine skin exams with a board-certified dermatologist can help detect early signs of melanoma. You can also perform self-checks for melanoma by examining your moles using the following mnemonic:
Schedule a skin cancer screening at Northstar Dermatology if a mole shows any of these characteristics or has symptoms like bleeding or discomfort.
