Don’t Ignore That Spot: When to See a Dermatologist About a Mole

We’ve all got spots — some of them we’ve mentally flagged. It might be a mole that’s always been there or a freckle that seems darker than the others. You notice it in passing, then move on, chalking it up to nothing serious. 

But skin changes don’t always announce themselves loudly. Some of the most critical warning signs show up quietly and gradually. Knowing when a mole deserves a closer look can make a significant difference in both treatment and peace of mind.

This month, our experts at Allure Dermatology cover incredibly simple (but incredibly powerful) tools to know when a mole is more than a blemish. 

Why paying attention matters

Moles and spots are common, and most are harmless. But skin cancer, including melanoma, often begins as a change in an existing mole or the appearance of a new one. 

Skin changes don’t always progress in predictable ways. A mole that looks stable one month can change the next. Waiting until something becomes painful or obvious can delay diagnosis.

Seeing our team early doesn’t mean something is wrong. It means you’re being proactive about your health. And when we catch rogue moles early, treatment is usually simpler and far more effective.

We are trained to recognize those subtle changes that may not seem concerning to the untrained eye. That expertise is what makes routine skin checks so valuable.

Mole changes you shouldn’t ignore

One of the most important things you can do is get familiar with your own skin. When you know what’s normal for you, changes become easier to spot.

Pay attention to a mole that:

• Changes in size, shape, or color
• Develops uneven borders
• Becomes itchy, painful, or starts bleeding
• Looks different from other moles on your body

A spot that stands out or evolves warrants professional evaluation, even if it doesn’t hurt. 

Some people should be particularly vigilant and consider regular skin checks a part of preventive care, including those with a personal or family history of skin cancer, fair skin, frequent sun exposure, or a history of tanning bed use.

Understanding new moles in adulthood

While it’s normal to develop moles during childhood and adolescence, new moles appearing later in life are something we want to know about. That doesn’t mean every new spot is dangerous, but it does mean it shouldn’t be ignored, either.

Sun exposure, genetics, and skin type all influence mole development, and a closer look from one of our experts is needed to determine whether a new spot is benign or needs monitoring.

What happens during a skin check?

A skin exam is straightforward and typically quick. We examine your skin from head to toe, often using a specialized tool to view moles more closely.

If a mole looks suspicious, we recommend monitoring it or performing a biopsy. A biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample for testing and is usually quick and minimally uncomfortable.

Trust your instincts

If a spot catches your attention, trust that instinct. We would rather reassure you that a mole is harmless than see you after a problem has progressed.

Your skin tells a story about your health. Paying attention and acting early are among the simplest ways to protect it.

Need to check in with our team about a mole? Call or click to schedule a consultation and talk with one of our dermatology specialists. We proudly serve patients in the Hicksville, New York, area.