Checking your moles regularly is one of the best ways to protect your skin from melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer. The ABCDE method makes it easier to identify potentially dangerous moles by focusing on key warning signs. Knowing what your skin normally looks like helps you spot changes early, when treatment is most effective.

What Are Moles?

Moles, also called nevi, are small, pigmented spots on the skin. They are made up of clusters of melanocytes, the cells that produce skin colour. Moles can appear anywhere on the body, alone or in groups, and may vary in colour, size, and shape. Most moles are harmless, but some can change and indicate a risk of skin cancer.

Moles can develop naturally, be inherited, or appear due to sun exposure. Adults often have between 10 and 40 moles, and their number can change over time, influenced by factors like ageing, hormones, and sun exposure.

Understanding the ABCDE Method

The ABCDE rule helps you recognise early signs of melanoma:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half. Most harmless moles are symmetrical.
  
  
• B – Border: Non-cancerous moles have smooth, even edges. Uneven or jagged borders may be a warning sign.
  
  
• C – Colour: Benign moles are usually one colour. Multiple shades or uneven colouring can indicate risk.
  
  
• D – Diameter: Moles larger than 6 millimetres (about the size of a pencil eraser) should be monitored.
  
  
• E – Evolution: Any change in a mole's size, shape, colour, or texture, or symptoms like itching, bleeding, or crusting, warrants a professional check.
  

Performing monthly checks using ABCDE can help detect melanoma early.

Don't Miss Hidden Areas

Melanomas can develop in places people often overlook:

• Feet and toes: Moles on the soles or between toes are easy to miss.
• Under nails: Dark streaks under fingernails or toenails may indicate acral lentiginous melanoma.
• Palms and soles: Some melanomas appear in these less-exposed areas.
• Eyes: A dark spot on the iris or changes in vision may signal ocular melanoma.
• Mouth, nose, or mucous areas: Sores that don't heal could indicate mucosal melanoma.
  

How to Conduct a Self-Check

1. Know your baseline: document all existing moles so you can notice new ones or changes.
2. Check your body systematically:
• Examine the face, lips, nose, ears, and scalp using a mirror.
• Look at your hands, fingers, and under your nails.
• Inspect arms, armpits, chest, and torso; women should also check under the breasts.
• Use mirrors to view your back, shoulders, and legs.
• Examine feet, soles, heels, between toes, and under toenails.
• Check the genital area and other hidden spots.
  
  
3. Track changes: Take photos over time to compare and notice any differences.
   

Take Control of Your Skin Health

Regular self-exams using the ABCDE method allow you to detect potential melanomas early. Early detection saves lives. Using tools like DermPro, you can track moles over time, making it easier to notice changes and get professional advice when needed.