The ABCDE Guide: How to Check Your Moles

The ABCDE Guide: How to Check Your Moles

Key Information:

• Spotting the Signs: Most moles are harmless, but spotting changes early is important, as this can be a sign of melanoma. To check your moles with confidence, we use the simple “ABCDE” memory aid.
• A is for Asymmetry: Imagine drawing a line down the middle of the mole. If the two halves look very different from each other, that is a warning sign.
• B is for Border: A normal mole usually has a smooth edge. Look out for edges that are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
• C is for Colour: Harmless moles are usually one single shade of brown. A mole with multiple, blotchy colours (different shades of brown, black, tan, or even red/white/blue) should be checked.
• D is for Diameter: As a general rule, a mole larger than 6mm (about the size of the rubber on the end of a pencil) is more concerning, though they can start smaller.
• E is for Evolving (The Most Important Rule): This simply means changing. Any mole that changes in size, shape, colour, or texture, or starts to itch or bleed, needs to be seen.