There are two main kinds of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma skin and each looks different. Melanomas can develop from existing moles, but they can also appear as new 'mole-like' marks on normal skin. Most skin cancers can be cured if detected early. The best way to detect skin cancer is to check your skin regularly, about once a month, from head to toe.
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Look out for moles or patches of skin that are growing, changing shape or developing new colours. Any bleeding, crusting, redness, itchiness or unusual development is cause enough to have it seen to by a dermatologist.
Remember...IF IN DOUBT, CHECK IT OUT
When to check your Moles
A is for Asymmetry
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​One half of the spot is unlike the other half.
B is for Border
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The spot has an irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.​
C is for Colour
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The spot has varying colors from one area to the next, such as shades of tan, brown or black, or areas of white, red, or blue.
D is for Diameter
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While melanomas are usually greater than 6 millimeters, or about the size of a pencil eraser, when diagnosed, they can be smaller.
E is for Evolving
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​The spot looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.​