Skin Changes
Moles and freckling can be caused by sun damage, age, or even some skin conditions. There are certain moles, though, that point towards malignant cancer cells. Those are the ones that are multicolored, have ragged edges, irregular shapes, are larger than a No.2 pencil eraser, and are bleeding or scaly. The larger the mole, the more worrisome it is.
However, some people have developed skin cancer without moles. You should look for small sores that do not heal, scaly patches of skin that bleed easily, and any painful sections of skin even in places that do not get sun. If you regularly get sun burned or have been to a tanning bed, you are particularly at risk of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer.
Removing moles is simple in most cases, but the procedure and treatment depends on the size and depth of the mole or cancer cells. Your dermatologist will evaluate the moles that are most suspicious and may order a biopsy. The skin cells will be examined beneath a microscope. If the result is positive, you may need surgery to remove the skin cancer completely.
