Not many people know, but the unusual occurrence of moles and blemishes may be indicative of melanoma. Ignoring the changes in your skin and the way it looks and feels can be fatal. The ABCDE method is the best way to detect whether these skin abnormalities are the early warning signs of melanoma. Let us discuss each in detail.

1. Asymmetry
If the mole on your skin is of irregular shape, then it could be one of the early warning signs of melanoma. Most melanomas are asymmetrical. You can test that by drawing a line through the middle of these moles. If the two halves are unidentical, then it could be melanoma. This test makes it easier to distinguish it from a regular mole.

2. Border
Melanoma borders are irregular. They usually have scalloped edges, while the common moles are smooth and symmetrical with uniform borders.

3. Color
If the mole you are inspecting is of inconsistent shading, then it may be one of the early warning signs of melanoma. The color may include different hues of black or brown. In some cases, the patches may even be white, pink, or red. Simply put, consider it a red flag if you notice multiple colors in a mole.

4. Diameter
While it would be best if the melanoma is detected when it is small, it is a warning sign if the speck is at least the size of a pencil eraser. The diameter is usually more than 6mm or ¼ inch or larger. Experts also recommend that you must keep an eye out for a dark lesion, regardless of its size.

5. Evolving or elevation
When the spot changes size, texture, shape, or appearance, then it is a tell-tale sign of melanoma. Don’t wait for these lesions to bleed or itch or crust. Visit your doctor at the first sign.

When to see a doctor?
Examine your body from time to time to identify new moles or freckles that show up on your skin, spots that don’t heal, an existing mole that starts to itch, or a new mole that looks unusual. The best way to ascertain that your mole is indeed melanoma is to get it examined by a doctor. Most melanomas are black, dark brown, or tan. Some may even describe it as changing, unusual, or unsightly. The doctor must check an evolving skin abnormality that does not go away on its own. If you find a new or existing mole that appears to be changing shape or size, then don’t hesitate to talk with a professional dermatologist or a doctor. They may enquire more about the spot by asking you how often you have been experiencing the symptoms. It will help the doctor determine the cause of the problem, also known as a diagnosis.