Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States, and melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Early detection and treatment of melanoma can be the key to successfully treating and surviving the disease.

Knowing the warning signs of melanoma can help you identify potential skin cancer and seek immediate medical attention.

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops when the skin cells that produce pigment become cancerous. Melanoma can develop on any part of the body, but it is most commonly found on the legs, arms, back, and face.

The primary cause of melanoma is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or indoor tanning. Certain factors can increase your risk of developing melanoma, including a family history of the disease, having many moles or abnormal moles, and having fair skin, freckles, or light-colored eyes.

Warning Signs of Melanoma

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends checking your skin for signs of skin cancer regularly, and seeing a dermatologist for a professional skin exam at least once a year.

These are the warning signs of melanoma that you should look for when checking your skin:.

Changes in the Color of Your Skin

One of the earliest signs of melanoma is a change in the color of your skin. Melanoma can appear as a new dark spot, or a change in the color of an existing mole. Pay attention to any new growths on your skin, and any moles that change color over time.

Irregular Borders or Shapes

Another warning sign of melanoma is irregular borders or shapes. Normal moles are round or oval-shaped and have clear borders. Melanoma may have uneven borders, or be an irregular shape.

Changes in the Size of Your Moles

Melanoma can appear as a new growth, or a change in an existing mole. One of the warning signs of melanoma is a mole that grows in size over a short period of time. Measure your moles regularly, and keep track of any changes in the size of your moles.

Elevated or Raised Moles

Melanomas can appear raised or elevated above the skin. This can be a sign that the growth is progressing into the deeper layers of the skin.

Check your skin for any new growths that are raised or elevated, especially if they are larger than a pencil eraser.

Bleeding or Crusting Moles

If you notice a mole that starts bleeding or crusting, it’s important to have it checked by a dermatologist. Melanomas can sometimes bleed or become rough and scaly on the surface.

These changes can be a sign that the mole is growing and needs to be evaluated by a medical professional.

Change in Sensation

One of the warning signs of melanoma is a change in the sensation of your skin. Melanoma can cause itching, pain, or tenderness in the affected area.

Pay attention to any changes in the way your skin feels, and have any unusual sensations checked by a dermatologist.

Asymmetrical Moles

Normal moles are generally symmetrical, meaning they are the same shape on each side. If a mole is asymmetrical, or one side doesn’t match the other, it could be a warning sign of melanoma.

Dark Moles

Melanomas are usually black or dark brown in color, but they can also appear in shades of gray, blue, or red. If you notice a mole that is darker than the others on your skin, it’s important to have it checked by a dermatologist.

New Moles

Some melanomas can appear as new growths on your skin. If you notice a new mole or spot on your skin, it’s important to have it checked by a dermatologist.

Family History of Melanoma

If you have a family history of melanoma, you may be at an increased risk of developing the disease. It’s important to be vigilant about checking your skin for new growths or changes in existing moles.

Talk to your doctor about your risk of developing melanoma, and take steps to protect your skin from sun exposure.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Skin

Knowing the warning signs of melanoma can help you identify potential skin cancer and seek immediate medical attention.

If you notice any changes in your skin, such as a new mole or a change in color or shape of an existing mole, it’s important to have it checked by a dermatologist. Protecting your skin from sun exposure and avoiding indoor tanning can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.

Remember to wear protective clothing, stay in the shade when possible, and use a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30.