Quick read
Key points
- 1
Moles are common, usually harmless growths on the skin, made up of clusters of pigment-producing cells. Most people have several moles, which can vary in size, shape, and colour, and new moles can appear, particularly during childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy.
- 2
Topic-specific prevention and risk reduction will be added during the article-specific evidence audit.
- 3
A mole changes in size, shape, or colour
01 · Know
What is Moles?
Moles are common, usually harmless growths on the skin, made up of clusters of pigment-producing cells. Most people have several moles, which can vary in size, shape, and colour, and new moles can appear, particularly during childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy.
While most moles are completely harmless, it's important to be aware of changes that could indicate skin cancer, using simple guidelines like checking for asymmetry, irregular borders, colour changes, size increases, and evolution over time (the "ABCDE" rule).
02 · Understand
Clinical context
The ABCDE rule helps identify concerning changes
Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter greater than 6mm, and Evolution (any change over time) are the key features doctors look for when assessing whether a mole needs further investigation.
03 · Act
When to See a Doctor
- 1A mole changes in size, shape, or colour
- 2A mole has an irregular or poorly defined border
- 3A mole is asymmetrical, itchy, bleeding, or crusting
- 4You notice a new mole that looks different from your other moles
04 · Prevent & manage
Practical steps
Get Any Changing Mole Checked Promptly, Rather Than Waiting to See
If you notice a mole changing in any way, it's always worth getting checked promptly rather than adopting a wait-and-see approach, since early assessment leads to the best outcomes if anything needs treatment.
- 1Check your skin regularly for changes.Getting familiar with your own moles helps you notice if anything changes.
- 2Use the ABCDE rule as a guide.This helps identify moles that might need a closer look by a doctor.
- 3Protect your skin from sun exposure.This reduces the risk of new concerning moles developing and protects existing skin from UV damage.
- 4See a doctor promptly for any changing or concerning mole.Early assessment allows for the best outcomes if any treatment is needed.
- 5Consider photographing moles to track changes over time.This can help you notice subtle changes that might otherwise be missed.
Evidence
References
BarnMD Health Intelligence uses authoritative and clinically relevant sources appropriate to the topic. References are shown so readers can inspect the evidence directly.
- HSE: Moles ↗
Medical information notice
Health education, not individual medical advice
BarnMD Health Library provides general health education for public health literacy. Reading this article does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and this information is not a diagnosis, prescription, or personalised treatment plan. If you have symptoms or concerns about your health, seek appropriate advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you develop emergency warning signs, seek urgent or emergency medical attention.
BarnMD Bottom Line
Most moles are harmless, and being aware of the ABCDE warning signs helps you know when to seek assessment for any changes.
Any mole that's changing in size, shape, or colour should always be checked promptly by a doctor.