How to Spot Melanoma Early and Protect Your Skin

Health Points

• Check your skin monthly for new or changing moles
• Limit midday sun and use broad-spectrum SPF
• See a dermatologist promptly if any spot looks suspicious

Most adults over 40 have at least one mole, yet only a small fraction ever turn cancerous. A regular self-exam can catch problems while they are still easy to treat.

Start by standing in bright, even light and using a full-length mirror plus a hand mirror. Look at the front, back, and sides of your body, paying special attention to areas that get the most sun.

Pay attention to the ABCDE rule—Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving,

Dr. Maria Lopez, a board-certified dermatologist, tells patients. She adds that any mole that itches, bleeds, or simply looks different from the rest deserves a professional look.

Daily habits matter just as much as spot checks. Apply SPF 30 or higher every morning, and reapply after swimming or sweating. Wide-brim hats and UV-blocking sunglasses add another layer of protection.

The goal is not to avoid the sun completely, but to enjoy it safely,

Dr. Lopez explains. She encourages readers to schedule outdoor time before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. when ultraviolet rays are weaker.

If you notice a changing mole, call for an appointment rather than waiting for the next annual checkup. Early-stage melanoma has a five-year survival rate above 99 percent, so quick action makes a real difference.