What Does Melanoma Look Like?
Jake Newby
| 3 min read
Jake Newby is a brand journalist for Blue Cross Blue...
Key Takeaways
- Melanoma most often develops on sun-exposed areas like the face, arms and legs, but it can appear anywhere on the body.
- Melanoma doesn’t have one distinct look; some melanomas resemble irregular moles, while others appear as new, unusual spots.
- Melanoma may appear flat or raised, smooth or rough and may be larger than typical moles. It may also be multi-colored and uneven in shape.
- Dermatologists and other health experts often use the “ABCDE” rule to help identify potential melanoma.
As the most serious form of skin cancer, recognizing the subtle differences between melanoma and benign skin growth can make a life-saving difference. Here’s how to understand what melanoma is, what it looks like and what to do if something seems off.
What is melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes, according to the Mayo Clinic. Melanocytes are cells responsible for producing melanin, which is the pigment that gives skin its color.
Melanoma most often develops on sun-exposed areas like the face, arms and legs, but it can appear anywhere on the body; even under your nails or on the soles of your feet.
While it is less common than other skin cancers, melanoma is more dangerous because it can spread quickly if not caught early. The good news is that it’s highly treatable when detected in its earliest stages.
What does melanoma look like?
Melanoma doesn’t have one distinct look, so identifying it can be tricky. Some melanomas resemble irregular moles, while others appear as new, unusual spots. According to the Melanoma Research Foundation, you might notice:
- A new growth or a change in an existing mole.
- A spot that looks different from others (this is sometimes referred to as the “ugly duckling,” per the Skin Cancer Foundation.)
- A sore that doesn’t heal or a mole that starts itching or bleeding.
Visually, melanoma may appear:
- Flat or raised, smooth or rough.
- Larger than typical moles.
- Multi-colored (brown, black, red, white or blue tones).
- Uneven in shape.
It’s also important to note that melanoma can look different depending on your skin tone.
The ABCDE rule: A simple skin check guide
Dermatologists and other health experts often use the “ABCDE” rule to help identify potential melanoma. Here’s how the National Cancer Institute breaks it down:
- A = Asymmetry: The shape of one half does not match the other.
- B = Border that is irregular: The edges are often irregular, ragged or blurred and the pigment may spread into the surrounding skin.
- C = Color that is uneven: Shades of black, brown and tan may be present. You may also notice white, gray, red, pink or blue.
- D = Diameter: There is a change in size, usually larger than 6 millimeters, which is the size of a pencil eraser.
- E = Evolving: The mole has changed over the past few weeks or months. Any change in size, shape, color or symptom – including itching, tenderness or bleeding – may indicate a mole’s evolution, per the Mayo Clinic.
What to do if you think you spot melanoma
You should react swiftly if you notice a new or changing spot on your skin. Start by monitoring it closely, but if it feels unusual or shows any “ABCDE” warning signs, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider (PCP), who may refer you to a dermatologist.
Your PCP may also recommend performing routine self-examinations at home and seeing a dermatologist for a full-body skin check annually. Early evaluation is key, especially since many melanomas are first noticed by patients themselves.
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Photo credit: Getty Images
