Utah Dermatology Tip – Checking for Moles
In a recent post about skin care in Utah, we talked about doing self-examinations for moles on your skin.
Per the request of clients at Aspen Dermatology, here is a bit more information about checking for moles.
If you notice a mole that is different from others, or which changes, itches, or bleeds even if it is smaller than 6 millimeter, see your Utah skin doctor.
CHECK YOURSELF FROM HEAD TO TOE.
- Look at your face, neck, ears, and scalp. You may want to use a comb or a blow dryer to move your hair so you can see better. You also may want to have a relative or friend check through your hair because this is difficult to do yourself.
- Look at the front and back of your body in the mirror, then raise your arms and look at your left and right sides.
- Bend your elbows and look carefully at your fingernails, palms, forearms (including the undersides), and upper arms.
- Examine the back, front, and sides of your legs. Also look between your buttocks and around your genital area.
- Sit and closely examine your feet, including the toenails, the soles, and the spaces between the toes.
By checking your skin regularly, you will become familiar with what is normal for you. It may be helpful to record the dates of your skin exams and write notes about the way your skin looks. If you find anything unusual, see your Utah dermatologist right away.
Always tell your Utah skin doctor if:
- You have any new or unusual sores or spots on your skin.
- A mole or skin lesion changes in size, color, or texture.
- You have a sore that does not heal.
