Most people have moles — some only a handful, while others may have dozens scattered across their skin. In most cases, these small marks are harmless and don’t require treatment. However, changes in the appearance or behaviour of a mole can sometimes signal something more serious, such as skin cancer.
But how can you tell the difference between a harmless mole and one that may need medical attention? Unfortunately, it’s not always straightforward. Some moles can gradually change in size, shape, or colour, while others may begin to itch, bleed, or simply look unusual. This is why monitoring your skin and knowing the warning signs is so important.
In this guide, we’ll share a simple checklist to help you recognise when a mole might need to be checked by a professional. From spotting key warning signs to understanding when changes could be cause for concern, this article is designed to help you feel more confident about protecting your skin health.
We’ll also explain how private mole checks work — what happens during a consultation, how moles are examined, and what treatment or follow-up may be recommended if something suspicious is detected. Whether you’re seeking reassurance or already have concerns about a mole, this guide will help you understand the next steps to take.
Dermatologists often use the ABCDE rule to identify suspicious moles, and it’s a simple tool you can apply at home. This method helps you spot early warning signs of melanoma and other skin concerns. Here’s how it works:
It’s normal for children and teenagers to develop new moles as they grow, often due to hormonal changes. Most people see an increase in their mole count during adolescence and early adulthood. However, once you reach your 30s, it becomes less common for new moles to appear — and when they do, they’re worth paying attention to.
A new mole after 30 doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong. Many are harmless and pose no risk at all. That said, skin cancers such as melanoma can sometimes begin as a new mole or pigmented spot in adulthood, so it’s important to stay vigilant.
Look out for moles that:
As a general rule, any mole that appears after the age of 30 should be checked by a specialist, especially if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer or significant sun exposure. Early detection makes all the difference — so when in doubt, get it checked.
Most moles are harmless and cause no discomfort. That’s why symptoms such as itching, pain, or bleeding should never be ignored — they signal that something has changed and may need medical attention.
Occasional irritation can happen if a mole rubs against clothing or gets scratched, but persistent symptoms without a clear cause are a red flag. Watch out for moles that:
Bleeding is especially important. A mole should never bleed spontaneously. If it does — particularly if it also looks larger, darker, crusty, or ulcerated — this may point to abnormal cell growth beneath the surface and requires prompt evaluation.
Pain is another sign that’s often overlooked. A sore or throbbing mole without injury can also suggest internal changes worth investigating.
Simply put, your skin shouldn’t bleed, hurt, or itch without a reason. If a mole develops these symptoms and there’s no obvious explanation, book a dermatologist appointment right away for peace of mind and, if necessary, early treatment.
Your family history can significantly influence your risk of developing skin cancer — particularly melanoma. If a close relative such as a parent, sibling, or child has been diagnosed, your likelihood of developing the condition is higher than average.
This doesn’t mean you will definitely get skin cancer, but it does mean you should be especially proactive about monitoring your skin. Some people inherit genes that make them more sensitive to UV damage or more likely to develop atypical moles, which means even small or subtle changes deserve attention.
If skin cancer runs in your family, regular skin checks are essential. Think of them as part of your routine healthcare, like dental cleanings or eye exams. Dermatologists often recommend annual skin exams for people with a family history of melanoma — even if there are no obvious concerns.
Key steps include:
Early detection is the most effective way to ensure successful treatment. If you have a family history of skin cancer, staying vigilant is one of the smartest ways to protect your long-term skin health.
Birthmarks are usually harmless, but larger or irregular ones can carry a slightly higher risk for skin problems, including melanoma. One example is congenital melanocytic nevi — moles or birthmarks present from birth — which have a small but increased chance of developing into skin cancer later in life.
The risk is greater if a birthmark:
Although most large birthmarks remain stable for years and never become dangerous, they still need careful monitoring. Signs to watch for include changes in size, colour, or texture, as well as the appearance of new dark patches or irregular shapes.
Dermatologists often recommend regular skin checks for people with large or irregular birthmarks. In some cases, they may suggest digital mole mapping, photographic monitoring, or a biopsy if there are any concerning changes.
If you’ve had a birthmark since childhood or notice something different about one you’ve had for years, it’s always worth getting it checked. Professional monitoring provides peace of mind — and if an issue is detected early, treatment is far more effective.
For anyone with multiple moles, a family history of skin cancer, or a higher personal risk, mole mapping offers one of the most thorough ways to monitor skin health. This advanced, non-invasive technology creates a detailed visual record of your skin, making it easier to spot subtle changes over time.
During a mole mapping session, high-resolution images are taken of your entire body, along with close-up photographs of individual moles. These images are securely stored and compared at future check-ups, allowing dermatologists to detect even the smallest changes.
The benefits of mole mapping include:
If a mole looks suspicious or changes between visits, it can be flagged for further investigation, which may include dermoscopy, biopsy, or removal.
The process itself is quick, painless, and completely non-invasive — no needles, no incisions, and no downtime. For many patients, it’s a reassuring way to ensure their skin is being monitored with accuracy and expertise.
In short, mole mapping is a modern, proactive approach to skin health — giving you confidence that any potential issues will be detected early, when treatment is most effective.
Even with checklists like the ABCDE rule, sometimes a mole just doesn’t feel right. Maybe it looks slightly different from your others, appeared suddenly, or simply gives you a gut feeling that something’s off. In these situations, it’s always better to be cautious and have it checked.
Most skin changes turn out to be harmless, but ignoring a mole that could be serious isn’t worth the risk. Early detection is key — catching skin cancer, especially melanoma, at an early stage dramatically improves treatment success and long-term outcomes.
The good news? A mole check is quick, simple, and painless. In a private clinic, you can often book an appointment without long waits. Your consultation may include:
Even if the mole turns out to be completely benign, you’ll leave with peace of mind instead of weeks of uncertainty. And if treatment is required, you’ve taken an important proactive step for your health.
Bottom line: if something doesn’t feel right, get it checked. It could be the most valuable five minutes you spend all year.
1. What’s the best way to monitor moles at home?
Use the ABCDE rule and take regular photos to track any changes. If a mole looks different, book a skin check with a dermatologist.
2. Should I worry about a mole that suddenly appears?
Yes, especially if you’re over 30. New moles in adulthood should be monitored closely and assessed by a professional.
3. Can a harmless-looking mole still be cancerous?
Sometimes. Not all cancerous moles look unusual, which is why regular checks are important, particularly if you have risk factors.
4. Is mole mapping safe and accurate?
Absolutely. Mole mapping is a non-invasive, high-tech method that helps monitor changes over time and detect potential issues early.
5. How often should I get my moles checked?
At least once a year, or more frequently if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer.
6. Are itchy moles always a cause for concern?
Itching alone isn’t always serious. But if it persists, or comes with bleeding or colour changes, have it checked promptly.
7. Can I remove a mole at home?
No. DIY mole removal is unsafe and can delay proper diagnosis. Always consult a qualified dermatologist.
8. Does sun exposure affect mole changes?
Yes. UV radiation can cause new moles to form and trigger changes in existing ones, increasing your risk of skin cancer.
9. Is it expensive to get a mole checked privately?
Costs vary, but private clinics offer quick access and thorough examinations. Many people consider the peace of mind worth it.
10. What happens if a mole needs to be removed?
Your dermatologist will explain the options, which may include surgical excision, biopsy, or other treatments, depending on the findings.