How do dangerous moles appear?
The ABCDE method and the “ugly duckling” method are two methods that the Skin Cancer Foundation [1] advises for spotting dangerous moles.
When examining a mole, ABCDE can be of assistance. Its acronym is:
A = Asymmetry: Most healthy moles are round or oval-shaped, so the letter A indicates asymmetry. If you drew a line down the middle, it would seem to be level. Melanomas are frequently irregular in shape.
B = Border: Healthy moles typically have uniform, smooth borders. The edges of melanomas can be wavy.
C = Color: Normally, healthy moles have a consistent color. Melanomas can be black, tan, brown, red, white, blue, or other colors, all of which can coexist in the same area.
D = Diameter/Dark: Healthy moles are typically smaller than a pencil eraser. Consult with a dermatologist if you find that a mole is beginning to grow.
E = Evolving: Any changes, including crusting, bleeding, itching, or even elevation of the mole region, are considered to be evolving moles.
Finding a mole that appears to be distinct from your other moles is the second “ugly duckling” strategy. Using the “ugly duckling” method, ways to spot melanoma include:
- Observing a mole that is darker or lighter than the others.
- Observing that one mole is different in texture from the others.
- Observing a mole that is bigger/smaller than the others.
Your skin care assumptions can be confirmed by searching for “ugly ducklings.”