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 from 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
Find more information about sun protection and methods to reduce your sunburn risk.