When to worry about a mole

We're growing more aware of the dangers of the sun's rays and how important covering up and applying sun cream is, but melanoma skin cancer rates are still increasing. So it's important we all get into the habit of checking our skin regularly.

"In the ‘good old days’, when a tan was a sign of a healthy outdoor life and holidays abroad were a novelty, many of us paid the price of wanting a tan. Some of us never got further than the peeling sunburn; some became addicted to sunbeds or spent every free hour in the sun. If any of those sounds like you, you need to be especially aware of the warning signs of skin cancer. But even if it doesn't, you need to look out for the signs," says Dr Sarah Jarvis, Patient.info's clinical director.

What are moles?

Moles form when pigment-producing cells in the skin grow in a cluster instead of being spread throughout the skin. Most moles are flat, but sometimes they can be raised, and can range from pink, brown to black depending on your skin colour.

"Most moles will develop on the body during the first 30 years of someone's life, and they can often change due to hormonal fluctuations. Moles are more common and prominent in fairer-skinned people, and may darken after exposure to the sun, during the teen years, and during pregnancy," explains dermatologist Dr Sharon Wong from the London Bridge Hospital, which is part of HCA Healthcare UK.

How can a mole lead to cancer?

UV light from the sun or using sunbeds can change the structure of a mole and increase the chance of it becoming cancerous. This is known as melanoma.

"Melanoma is one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer, which can spread to other organs in the body. The most common sign of melanoma is a change in an existing or new mole. The mole may also be larger than normal and can sometimes be itchy or bleed," reveals Wong.

Of course, not all new, enlarged or changing moles will mean skin cancer. But you should keep an eye on them just in case.

"Making a habit of examining your own skin on a monthly basis will help to detect any abnormal growths quickly. I always advise my patients to check their skin after they have had a bath or a shower, in a well-lit room with a full-length mirror," Wong adds.

Jarvis says: "Malignant melanoma can affect adults of all ages, and accounts for 90% of skin cancer deaths despite being about 20 times less common than other skin cancers. The biggest risk factor is skin damage, particularly from burning and especially in childhood. A combination of pale skin and a hot climate is particularly risky. Most moles are nothing to worry about, but see your doctor immediately if a mole changes or you don't pass the ABCDE test."

What to look for

Wong also recommends the ABCDE test, which is a handy guide to remembering what to spot.

Asymmetry

Is the mole symmetrical? Look out for changes in pigment, texture or shape from one half of the mole to the other.

Border

A non-cancerous mole will usually have smooth, even borders, and you can see clearly where the mole ends and normal skin begins. You should look out for uneven formations and rough edges or lack of clarity between the edge of the mole and the skin that surrounds it.

Colour

Most non-cancerous moles are a single shade of brown, so if a mole is showing a number of colours this could be a warning sign.

Diameter

Melanomas are usually larger than 6 mm. If a mole is bigger than this you may want to consider having it checked out.

Evolving

Non-cancerous moles don't usually change shape or appearance, so if one of your moles is starting to evolve you should definitely book to seek your GP. Also, be aware of any new symptoms such as bleeding, itching or crusting.

But don't fret if you find the self-checking process tricky, or you've found some irregular moles or patches of skin. Book an appointment with your GP who will be able to review your moles and determine if any should be removed or investigated further.

How to reduce your skin cancer risk

Stay safe this year and don't skimp on sun cream. Wong says you need to find one with good UVA and UVB protection. Both types of ray can cause damage to the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. And cosmetically, UVA can age the skin, resulting in deep wrinkling and dark spots.

And remember, there's no such thing as a healthy tan.

"Unfortunately, there is still a perception within our society that having a tan looks 'healthy'. Due to this, many people apply low-factor sun cream when out in the sun, or don't apply any at all, in order to bronze their skin. I always advise my patients to use between factor 30-50 sun creams with 5* UVA cover, and to apply large amounts every two hours," says Wong.

"I also advise that people should avoid sunbeds at all costs. The UV rays from sunbeds can damage the DNA in your skin cells, and over time this damage can build up to cause skin cancer. Fake tan products are a great option for people who want a darker skin tone, without the long-lasting damage," she concludes.