# What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?

Skin cancer does not always look the way people expect. It can appear as a new spot, a changing mole, a small lump, or even a sore that simply does not heal.

Some skin cancers are obvious, but others can be surprisingly subtle. Knowing what to look for can help you recognise when it is worth having your skin checked.

Common Signs of Skin Cancer

You should pay attention to a spot that:

● Is new or looks different from your other spots

● Changes in size, shape or colour

● Bleeds, crusts or repeatedly becomes sore

● Does not heal normally

● Becomes itchy, tender or painful

● Looks like a persistent red or scaly patch

● Appears as a shiny, pearly or pink lump

Melanoma can sometimes appear as a dark or irregular mole, but it does not always look dark. Some melanomas can be pink or red and may initially look quite harmless.

What About an Existing Mole?

Most moles are harmless. The important thing is to notice change.

A mole that becomes larger, develops an unusual shape, changes colour or simply starts looking different from your other moles deserves attention.

A useful rule is the “ugly duckling” sign: if one spot looks noticeably different from all the others on your skin, it is worth having it assessed.

Can You Tell Just by Looking?

Not always.

Some harmless spots can look concerning, while early skin cancers can look quite innocent. This is why professional examination and dermoscopy can be important when a spot is uncertain.

For people with many moles or a higher risk of melanoma, technologies such as 3D total-body mole mapping can also help monitor spots and identify subtle changes over time.

If you notice a new, changing or unusual spot, don’t wait for it to become painful. Early detection generally means simpler treatment and better outcomes.

Dr Colin McTari provides skin cancer assessment and 3D total-body mole mapping at SKEEN Clinic in Spring Hill, Brisbane.