self examination

check your skin - it could save your life!

It is essential to check your skin regularly with the use of a mirror or ask your partner to keep an eye on the ones in difficult places such as your back. Any concerns you should see a doctor as it is very difficult to judge normal and abnormal moles.

• You should always be suspicious of a new mole and the darkest ones on your body.
• A general rule is to look for the ‘Ugly Duckling Sign’ - any mole that looks different than other moles on the body.

signs to look for suspected malignant melanoma

major signs

• If an existing mole gets larger or a new one is growing
• If the mole has an irregular outline
• If the colours are mixed shades of brown or black

minor signs

• If the mole is bigger than the blunt end of a pencil
• If it is inflamed or has a reddish edge
• If it is bleeding, oozing or crusting
• If it starts to feel different: for example, itching or painful

For more information about sun protection and methods to reduce your sunburn risk please click here.