It's important to have an idea of what you are looking for when you are performing a skin self-examination. There are many different attributes to the spots on your skin, and your doctor is the best person to make the final judgement, but most people generally adopt the ABCD & E guidelines.
Asymmetry If one side of the spot is not the same as the other side.
Border Irregularity When the outside border of the spot has either jagged edges or "fuzzy" or "undefined" edges.
Color When a spot has more than one color within it, such as various shades of brown, black, blue/black and even white, gray or red.
Diameter When measuring across the spot from the longest sides, if the spot is more than a quarter inch long. But keep an eye on the smaller spots as well.
Evolution The spot feels higher than it used to, it is starting to itch, or it is somehow different than before.
Don't be scared if you find something that looks unusual to you. Take action! If you have a spot that looks suspicious, visit your doctor to have it checked. Some spots that don't look dangerous can turn out to be a problem, and some spots that look bad may turn out to be okay. Only your doctor can tell you for sure!
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