Moles
- If you have a lot of moles, check regularly for any changing, bleeding or scabbing – or just looking different. You might need to photograph them to keep track.
- Protect yourself from too much sun, and avoid sunbeds. In strong sun, protect your skin with good clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Skin cancer is not common in young people. It normally presents as a spot, freckle or mole that's different to the skin around it. Most skin cancers can be successfully treated if found early.
Signs a mole could be cancerous
Some moles can be a sign of melanoma, a type of skin cancer see nhs melanoma skin cancer page for further information.
Sometimes they may bleed, itch, or be crusty or raised.
They often have uneven edges.
Melanomas may change colour over time or have more than 2 colours.
Check if your mole could be cancerous
Signs of harmless moles
Most harmless moles are round or oval-shaped, with a smooth edge.
They are usually darker on brown and black skin.
They can be flat or raised and may feel smooth or rough.
Sometimes they have hair growing from them.