Majority of skin spots are harmless, but it can be overwhelming determining what is harmless vs what needs to be checked. Knowing what to recognize can help you decide when it is time to have your dermatologist take a look.

Here are the 5 signs that a spot should be checked

1. It is changing

Pay attention to changes in size, shape, color, or texture. If a spot suddenly starts looking different, it needs a closer look.

2. It has an irregular shape or border

A ‘normal’ mole is typically round or oval with smooth, defined borders. A spot with uneven, jagged or a poorly defined border may be more concerning.

3. It has multiple or unusual colors

Spots containing multiple shades of brown, black, red, pink, blue or white could be concerning. If you notice this, the spot needs to be evaluated.

4. It’s new or looks different from your other spots

If you have an “ugly duckling” spot – a spot that is noticeably different from the rest of your moles, it should be checked out.

5. It bleeds, is crusty, itches or won’t heal

If your spot bleeds without being injured is consistently crusty becomes painful, itchy, or looks like a sore that won’t heal. It needs to be checked by a dermatologist.

Remember the ABCDEs when looking at a mole;

A – Asymmetry: one half doesn’t match the other.

B – Border: the edges are irregular, jagged, or blurred.

C – Color: The spot has multiple colors.

D – Diameter: The spot is larger than 6mm

E – Evolving: The spot is changing in any way.

When in doubt, get it checked

If you notice a new changing or unusual spot schedule a skin exam with a dermatologist early detection of skin cancer can make treatment easier and more successful.