As temperatures rise and the sun starts shining brighter, it is important to remember to take care of our skin. One of the most dangerous types of skin cancer is melanoma, and it is crucial to know how to identify it early.
That is where the ABCDEs of melanoma come in. The ABCDEs of melanoma are a great way to self-assess and to stay on top of your skin lesions.
| A is for Asymmetry If one half of the mole or spot does not match the other half, it is asymmetrical and could be a sign of melanoma.  |
| B is for Border A border that is uneven or notched could be a sign of melanoma.  |
| C is for Colour If the colour of the mole or spot varies from one area to another or is different shades of brown, tan or black, this may be a sign of melanoma.  |
| D is for Diameter Melanomas tend to be larger in diameter than the size of a pencil eraser, however, some can be smaller.  |
E is for EvolvingIf the mole or spot is changing in size, shape or colour or looks different from any other mole on your body, it may be a sign of melanoma. |
It is very important to monitor your skin lesions. If you notice any of the ABCDEs, make sure you see your primary care provider. Additionally, you need to protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing mineral sunscreen, protective clothing and avoiding tanning beds.
Would you like to learn more about your individual skin health and needs? Come see us for a free Optic Elite skin analysis!
The Optic Elite takes a high-definition scan of your face. It provides real-time data on your skin health by scanning for 10 different conditions within your skin. This allows our experts to make informed recommendations on products and treatments to keep your skin safe, healthy and glowing all summer!