Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer, so it’s important to remember to perform skin mole self-exams regularly.
Melanoma usually develops on the surface of the skin and affects your melanocytes—the cells that give your skin its color. It often begins in or near an existing mole.
Check your moles for the ABCDE of melanoma warning signs:
A — Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other
B — Border is irregular, scalloped or poorly defined
C — Color is varied from one area to another
D — Diameter: Melanomas are usually greater than 6 mm, or the size of a pencil eraser
E — Evolving: A mole or skin lesion that looks different or has changed
Moles are usually round or oval, have a defined border and are uniform in color. If your skin moles have one or more of the ABCDE of melanoma traits, make sure you talk to your Water’s Edge medical dermatologist. He or she will help determine if you need mole treatment for your skin moles.
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