Spotting the difference between a mole and skin cancer can be tricky. While most moles are harmless, changes in their appearance may signal a concern. Dr. Gardner and the Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery team can help you identify warning signs before considering skin cancer treatment in St. George, UT.

What Are Moles?

Moles are common skin growths that develop when pigment cells (melanocytes) cluster together. They can appear anywhere on your body and vary in color, size, and shape. Most moles are benign and pose no risk. However, some may develop into skin cancer.

Signs of Dangerous Moles

Not all unusual moles are harmful, but certain changes can indicate a potential issue. The ABCDE method is a useful guide for identifying warning signs of moles vs skin cancer:

  • A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
  • B – Border: The edges are irregular, jagged, or blurred.
  • C – Color: The mole has multiple colors or uneven shading.
  • D – Diameter: Moles larger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm) should be examined.
  • E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or texture may be a concern.

If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to seek advice from a specialist like Dr. Gardner.

Identifying Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can develop in an existing mole or appear as a new growth. Early detection is key. In addition to the ABCDE signs, here are some tips on how to spot melanoma.

Melanomas are sores that don’t heal. It can be a mole that is itchy, tender, and painful. These moles may also bleed or ooze.

Melanoma can spread quickly, so immediate evaluation is important. If you’re unsure whether a spot on your skin is a mole or skin cancer, it’s best to have it checked.

When to See a Dermatologist

Regular self-exams are helpful, but professional skin evaluations are essential for early detection. Schedule an appointment if you notice sudden changes in a mole’s appearance.

Assessing new moles that look unusual or feel itchy, scaly, or painful is also important.

If you’re concerned about skin cancer, Dr. Gardner provides expert care and offers skin cancer evaluations to help you identify potential concerns.

Skin Cancer Treatment Options

If a suspicious mole is diagnosed as skin cancer, treatment may involve skin cancer surgery to remove the affected area. The procedure can vary depending on the size, location, and type of skin cancer. Early detection often allows for less invasive treatment with better results.

How to Reduce Your Risk

While some factors like genetics can increase your risk, some lifestyle habits can protect your skin from skin cancer.

Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day and wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.

Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially from 10 AM to 4 PM peak hours. It would also help to perform regular skin self-exams and visit your dermatologist yearly.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re unsure about a mole or need a skin cancer screening, it’s best to seek expert guidance. Don’t wait if you have concerns about a suspicious spot. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gardner for a professional evaluation.

Flexible financing options are available to make care more accessible for those worried about treatment costs. Contact Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery today to begin your treatment.Spotting the difference between a mole and skin cancer can be tricky. While most moles are harmless, changes in their appearance may signal a concern. Dr. Gardner and the Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery team can help you identify warning signs before considering skin cancer treatment in St. George, UT.

What Are Moles?

Moles are common skin growths that develop when pigment cells (melanocytes) cluster together. They can appear anywhere on your body and vary in color, size, and shape. Most moles are benign and pose no risk. However, some may develop into skin cancer.

Signs of Dangerous Moles

Not all unusual moles are harmful, but certain changes can indicate a potential issue. The ABCDE method is a useful guide for identifying warning signs of moles vs skin cancer:

  • A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
  • B – Border: The edges are irregular, jagged, or blurred.
  • C – Color: The mole has multiple colors or uneven shading.
  • D – Diameter: Moles larger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm) should be examined.
  • E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or texture may be a concern.

If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to seek advice from a specialist like Dr. Gardner.

Identifying Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can develop in an existing mole or appear as a new growth. Early detection is key. In addition to the ABCDE signs, here are some tips on how to spot melanoma.

Melanomas are sores that don’t heal. It can be a mole that is itchy, tender, and painful. These moles may also bleed or ooze.

Melanoma can spread quickly, so immediate evaluation is important. If you’re unsure whether a spot on your skin is a mole or skin cancer, it’s best to have it checked.

When to See a Dermatologist

Regular self-exams are helpful, but professional skin evaluations are essential for early detection. Schedule an appointment if you notice sudden changes in a mole’s appearance.

Assessing new moles that look unusual or feel itchy, scaly, or painful is also important.

If you’re concerned about skin cancer, Dr. Gardner provides expert care and offers skin cancer evaluations to help you identify potential concerns.

Skin Cancer Treatment Options

If a suspicious mole is diagnosed as skin cancer, treatment may involve skin cancer surgery to remove the affected area. The procedure can vary depending on the size, location, and type of skin cancer. Early detection often allows for less invasive treatment with better results.

How to Reduce Your Risk

While some factors like genetics can increase your risk, some lifestyle habits can protect your skin from skin cancer.

Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day and wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.

Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially from 10 AM to 4 PM peak hours. It would also help to perform regular skin self-exams and visit your dermatologist yearly.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re unsure about a mole or need a skin cancer screening, it’s best to seek expert guidance. Don’t wait if you have concerns about a suspicious spot. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gardner for a professional evaluation.

Flexible financing options are available to make care more accessible for those worried about treatment costs. Contact Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery today to begin your treatment.