What should you know about moles that could be cancerous?

Look for a mole that is unlike your other marks or is becoming less uniform. Uneven halves, an irregular edge, multiple shades, growth, or a new symptom can prompt a closer examination.

A mole with one of these features is not automatically cancerous. Similar changes can follow irritation or other benign processes, and only a clinical assessment can sort these possibilities. Take particular notice of change rather than relying on a single snapshot.

Photograph the mole with a scale beside it if practical, write down what changed, and arrange a dermatology appointment. Avoid home cutting, freezing, or chemical products; these can injure skin and make diagnosis harder.

The dermatologist may inspect the lesion with magnification and recommend observation or tissue sampling. If removal is appropriate, discuss [Mole Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/mole-removal/) and whether [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/) fits the lesion’s position and depth.

Seek prompt review for a changing, bleeding, crusted, persistently itchy, tender, or non-healing mole. Get urgent help if bleeding will not stop with firm pressure or if redness, swelling, and fever develop after injury.

Ask whether the lesion needs sampling, what change should trigger immediate contact, how a procedure may affect the surrounding skin, and whether follow-up skin checks are appropriate.