IS IT A GOOD MOLE OR A BAD MOLE?

Nearly every adult has a few moles. Most adults have a type of mole called a common mole, which is harmless. There are other types of moles. Below you'll see types of moles that can increase a person’s risk of getting melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. If you discover any one of these moles on your skin, you should have a dermatologist who can give you skin exams.

MALIGNANT MELANOMA

Melanoma most commonly appears as a new spot or mole, or an existing spot or mole that changes in color, size, or shape. However, it is important to acknowledge that melanoma can differ considerably in size, shape, and color.
The 'ABCDE of Melanoma' is a common screening tool used to compare the characteristics of normal moles versus melanoma. These photographs show examples of melanoma and should help you to recognize what is not normal. However, not all melanoma looks like this and some may be very small.