Moles are a common skin issue, and usually, they are nothing to worry about. Moles are caused by the clumping together of melanocytes, the skin cells responsible for skin color. Moles can also be an early sign of skin cancer, but you need to know what to look for. Dr. Timothy Abrahamson at Greater Des Moines Dermatology in Urbandale, IA, provides comprehensive cosmetic and medical dermatology services, including mole checks, to help prevent skin cancer He proudly serves residents of Urbandale, and Des Moines, IA.

How a Mole Check Can Help Prevent Skin Cancer

You should check your moles regularly, looking for any abnormalities. You want to pay attention to moles that are:

• Large, with a diameter of over 6 millimeters
• Poorly defined, with ragged, irregular borders
• Changing in size, shape, and color
• Recurring, after previous removal

You also want to visit your dermatologist for a professional mole check at least once each year. Your dermatologist may recommend more frequent visits if you are at high risk of developing skin cancer. Your risk of skin cancer increases if you have:

• Fair skin and freckles
• A history of skin cancer
• A family history of skin cancer
• A tendency to spend a lot of time in the sun

During a mole check, your dermatologist will perform a thorough examination of your skin, looking for moles with abnormal characteristics like those listed above. If your dermatologist finds an abnormal mole, your dermatologist may remove a portion or the entire mole for a biopsy. A biopsy can determine if the skin cells are cancerous.

In addition to regular mole checks, you should also wear sunscreen to help prevent skin cancer. You need to:

• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when going outside
• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 if you are at high risk of developing skin cancer
• Reapply sunscreen after swimming, sweating, or getting wet

Want To Know More?

To learn more about mole checks and skin cancer prevention, talk with an expert–your dermatologist. Call Dr. Timothy Abrahamson at Greater Des Moines Dermatology in Urbandale, IA, serving residents of Urbandale, and Des Moines, IA. You can reach him in the office by calling (515) 243-8676, so call today.