Patient resources
Skin Self-Check Guide
A monthly check can help you notice changes to your skin. Self-checks do not replace a professional skin examination.
Mole awareness
Know your ABCDEs.
Changes worth discussing with your dermatologist. This guide cannot diagnose a mole or rule out skin cancer.
Asymmetry
One half of a mole looks different from the other.
Any new, changing, bleeding or non-healing lesion deserves a professional assessment, even if it does not fit this guide.
Speak to our practiceThis is general information and does not replace professional medical advice.
Skin self-check guide
5 steps to a thorough exam.
Set aside around 10 minutes once a month to check your skin. A full-length mirror, a hand mirror and good lighting can help you notice changes over time.
- 01
Face & front
Check your face, ears, neck, chest and belly in a full-length mirror.
- 02
Arms & hands
Check underarms, both sides of your arms, palms and under fingernails.
- 03
Lower body
Sit down to check the front of your thighs, shins, feet and between your toes.
- 04
Back & rear
Use a hand mirror to check your back, the back of your neck, buttocks and calves.
- 05
Scalp
Use a comb to part your hair and check your scalp thoroughly. Ask someone to help with areas you cannot see.
The “ugly duckling” sign
Look for a mole that looks significantly different from the others on your body. If most of your moles are similar, an outlier is worth discussing with your dermatologist.
The EFG rule
Some nodular melanomas may not fit the ABCDE pattern. Notice Elevation (raised), Firmness (solid) and Growth (growing over 2–3 weeks). A new or rapidly growing lump needs prompt assessment.
This is general information and does not replace professional medical advice.
We look forward to meeting you