The ABCDEs of Melanoma

Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the skin. If you notice a mole with any of these symptoms, please contact us today!

A- Asymmetry: One half of the mole is unlike the other

B- Border: irregular, scalloped or poorly defined

C- Color: Varied from one area to another; shades of tan and brown, black sometimes even white, red, or blue

D- Diameter: While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm when diagnosed, they can be smaller

E- Evolving: A mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color. 

How to check your spots:

Checking your skin is very important no matter how old or what skin type you have. When you are checking your skin make sure to take note of all spots on your body from moles to freckles to age spots. Remember, some moles are red, black, or even blue! If you see any change on your spots, please contact us today at Contour Dermatology and Cosmetics!

Phone: (805) 491-5992

Author

Dr. Mayha Patel Dr. Patel diagnoses conditions affecting the hair, skin, and nails, which often have a large impact on your self-image and confidence. Using exams, blood tests, biopsies, and other approaches, Dr. Patel frequently diagnoses eczema, psoriasis, alopecia, acne, and various types of skin cancer creating an individualized treatment plan with each patient’s needs in mind. In addition, as a board-certified dermatologist Dr. Patel has extensive cosmetic dermatology experience and knowledge in numerous state of the art interventional procedures in cosmetic dermatology such as botox®, fillers, microneedling, kybella, and thread lifts. Dr. Patel also specializes in facial contouring, concierge cosmetics, and laser based procedures. Dr. Patel frequently uses her dual wavelength laser system for treatment, as well as UV light therapies, prescription medications, and topical products with proven results.