What should you know about cancerous moles on face?

Most moles are harmless, but melanoma and other skin cancers can begin in or near a mole. A concerning lesion may become asymmetrical, develop an uneven edge, show several colours, enlarge, or look different from your other moles. New bleeding, crusting, persistent itching, tenderness, or a sore that does not heal also deserves assessment. These signs cannot confirm cancer by themselves; a clinician examines the skin with magnification and may recommend a biopsy.

The face receives regular ultraviolet exposure, so mention frequent sun exposure, tanning, previous skin cancer, and close relatives with melanoma during the consultation. Do not judge a lesion from a photograph alone.

Arrange a dermatology appointment and avoid picking, shaving over, burning, or applying online mole-removal products to the area. Take a clear photograph beside a familiar object and note when you first noticed any change; this can help the clinician understand its timeline. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and shade while waiting, without delaying assessment.

If removal is advised, the tissue may be sent for laboratory examination. Depending on the finding, care may involve Surgical Excision or Mole Removal. The appropriate method depends on the lesion's appearance, depth, position, and the need to preserve diagnostic tissue.

Book a prompt appointment for a mole that is changing, bleeding, crusting, becoming painful, or developing a persistent itch. Seek urgent medical advice if bleeding will not stop with firm pressure, or if a rapidly worsening open area is accompanied by marked swelling, spreading redness, fever, or feeling unwell. A stable mole can still be checked routinely if it worries you, especially when it is difficult to monitor.

Ask whether the lesion needs dermoscopy or biopsy, what changes should be tracked, whether removal will leave a scar, how the wound should be cared for, and when the laboratory result will be available.