What should you know about new moles appearing?

Moles form when pigment-producing skin cells collect in a group. New spots can appear during childhood, adolescence, adulthood, or pregnancy, and sun exposure can influence how many develop. Many are evenly coloured, round or oval, and stable after appearing.

A new mole does not by itself diagnose skin cancer. The useful question is whether it looks different from your other moles or changes over time. Pay attention to uneven halves, an irregular edge, several colours, noticeable growth, bleeding, crusting, persistent itching, or tenderness.

Take a clear photograph beside a ruler or familiar object, record where the spot is, and compare it periodically in consistent lighting. Check hard-to-see areas with a mirror or ask someone you trust to help. Use shade, protective clothing, and broad-spectrum sunscreen to reduce ultraviolet exposure.

Do not scratch, cut, burn, or try home removal. A dermatologist can examine the mole with magnification and decide whether observation, sampling, or removal is appropriate. If removal is advised, ask whether the specimen will be examined in a laboratory.

Arrange a dermatology appointment promptly if a new mole is rapidly changing, markedly different from the rest, bleeding without clear injury, persistently crusted, or repeatedly itchy. Seek earlier advice if you have many moles, a personal or family history of skin cancer, or reduced immunity.

Ask: Does this mole need dermoscopic monitoring or removal? Which specific feature concerns you? How often should I check it? If it is removed, will it be sent for pathology, and how should I care for the wound?