How safe are YOUR MOLES?

Knowing how to identify a suspicious mole could potentially save your life

- FAYE M SMITH

With COVID-19 having dominated all things health-related, niggling worries – such as whether your moles are safe – may have easily slipped down your priority list. But, even if you’re checking your moles regularly, do you really know what to look for?

Knowing what to spot could save your life, as 86%* of skin cancer cases are said to be preventable. Here’s everything you need to know about spotting a suspicious mole.

Time to change your routine

Checking your moles regularly should be a habit, and not just in summer. Most moles are harmless and will look the same for many years. ‘Yet, in theory, all moles have the potential to change into skin cancer,’ says Dr Ross Perry, skin cancer expert at Cosmedics UK. ‘So check them all – even ones you’ve had since childhood.’

Taking photos and measuring your moles are an easy way to tell if things are subtly changing. ‘Check your body once a month,’ adds Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson. ‘Study your moles in a well-lit room with a full-length mirror. Seek assistance from a trusted individual for the hard-to-see areas.’

How to spot a suspicious mole

Not sure what you’re looking for? Simply follow the A, B, C, D, E rule for each mole:

Asymmetry One half of the mole is different to the other.

Border Irregular, scalloped or poorly defined edge.

Colour Uneven colour or variable colours within the same mole.