Sun Spots, Moles, and Skin Checks: When to Get a Spot Looked At

We all have them—those little spots that seem to show up on our skin out of nowhere. Maybe it’s a mole you’ve had since childhood or a new freckle that appeared after a sunny vacation. But how do you know when a spot is harmless and when it’s something you should be concerned about?

In this post, we’ll help you understand the differences between sun spots, moles, and other common skin lesions. More importantly, we’ll explain how to recognize signs that it might be time for a professional skin check.

What Are Sun Spots?

Sun spots—also called liver spots or solar lentigines—are flat, brown patches that appear on sun-exposed areas like your face, shoulders, and hands. They’re the result of prolonged sun exposure and are more common as we age.

Sun spots are a common result of UV exposure over time

What Are Moles?

Moles are usually round or oval spots that can be flesh-colored, brown, or black. Most moles are benign, but some can evolve into melanoma—a serious form of skin cancer. Moles can appear anywhere on the body and may change over time.

Benign moles tend to remain stable. Changes in shape or color may warrant a closer look

The ABCDEs of Melanoma

Dermatologists use the ABCDE rule to help identify moles that may be cancerous:

• Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other

• Border: Edges are irregular or blurred

• Color: Varies across the mole (different shades of brown, black, red, etc.)

• Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)

• Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or color

If a mole meets any of these criteria, it’s time to get it checked.

The ABCDE rule is a quick guide to spot potential warning signs

What About Skin Tags or Seborrheic Keratoses?

Not all growths are moles or sun spots. Skin tags are soft, benign growths, often found in skin folds. Seborrheic keratoses look like warty or waxy patches and are also non-cancerous. While these aren’t dangerous, a sudden increase in number or change in appearance should still be mentioned to your doctor.

When Should You Get a Spot Checked?

You don’t need to panic about every freckle, but here are signs it’s time to schedule a skin check:

• A mole or spot is new and growing quickly

• It itches, bleeds, or scabs

• You notice color changes

• It looks different from other spots on your skin

• You have a family history of skin cancer

Early detection can make all the difference. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma detected early is 99%.

Early skin checks help catch potential issues before they become serious

Skin Checks: What to Expect

During a professional skin check, your doctor or dermatologist will inspect your skin from head to toe, often using a dermatoscope. It’s non-invasive and quick. If something looks concerning, a biopsy may be taken for further testing.

Prevention Tips for Healthy Skin

• Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen

• Avoid peak UV hours (10 AM – 4 PM)

• Wear hats and protective clothing outdoors

• Get an annual skin exam

• Keep an eye on your moles monthly

Final Thoughts

Your skin is your body’s largest organ—protect it. Knowing what to look for and when to act can save your life. If you’ve noticed a spot that looks suspicious or just want peace of mind, don’t wait—schedule a skin check today.