legacy-dermatology

The ABCDEs of Melanoma: Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:35:48 GMT

Key Points

The ABCDE method is a simple, proven tool for identifying potential melanoma warning signs on your skin.
ABCDE stands for Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolving.
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, but it is also highly treatable when caught early.
Not every unusual mole is melanoma, but any mole that fits the ABCDE criteria deserves a professional evaluation.
Legacy Dermatology in Algonquin, IL offers expert skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, including full-body skin checks.

You have probably heard that you should "keep an eye on your moles." But what does that actually mean? What exactly are you supposed to be looking for?

That is where the ABCDEs of melanoma come in. This simple framework was developed by dermatologists to give everyday people a reliable way to spot potential warning signs of skin cancer on their own skin. It is not a replacement for seeing a dermatologist, but it is a genuinely useful tool to have in your back pocket.

Let's break it down.

What Is Melanoma?

Before diving into the ABCDEs, it helps to understand what melanoma actually is.

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that starts in the melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for giving your skin its color. It is the most aggressive form of skin cancer because it has a higher likelihood of spreading to other parts of the body if it is not caught and treated early.

The encouraging news is that melanoma is one of the most visible cancers. It grows on the surface of your skin, which means it can often be spotted before it becomes a serious problem, especially if you know what to look for.

Sun exposure and tanning bed use are the biggest risk factors, but melanoma can also develop in areas that rarely see sunlight. That is why a full-body skin check with a dermatologist is so important.

The ABCDEs of Melanoma Explained

A -- Asymmetry

A healthy mole is generally symmetrical. If you were to draw a line down the middle, both halves would look roughly the same.

A mole that is asymmetrical, meaning one half looks noticeably different from the other, is worth paying attention to. Melanoma lesions tend to be irregular and uneven in shape, while benign moles are usually rounder and more uniform.

What to do: Hold a mental ruler down the center of any mole you are watching. If the two sides do not match up, make a note and get it checked.

B -- Border

Normal moles have smooth, well-defined edges. The border of a healthy mole is easy to see and pretty clean.

Melanoma often has borders that are ragged, notched, blurred, or uneven. The edges may look like they are bleeding into the surrounding skin rather than ending cleanly.

What to do: Look at the outline of your moles. If the edges look irregular or hard to define, that is a sign to bring it up with your dermatologist.

C -- Color

Most benign moles are a single, consistent shade of brown or tan. Melanoma tends to show up in multiple colors within the same spot, which can include shades of brown, black, red, white, or even blue.

Uneven coloring or patches of different hues within one mole are one of the more telling warning signs.

What to do: Look for moles that have more than one color or that have patches that seem lighter or darker than the rest. Variation within a single spot is the key thing to watch for.

D -- Diameter

Melanomas are often larger than a typical benign mole. The classic benchmark is 6 millimeters, which is roughly the size of a pencil eraser.

That said, melanomas can be smaller than 6 millimeters, especially in the early stages. Size alone is not the only factor, but it is part of the picture.

What to do: If a mole is larger than a pencil eraser and also has other ABCDE characteristics, that is a combination worth taking seriously.

E -- Evolving

This one might be the most important letter of all. A mole that is changing over time, in any way, deserves attention.

Evolving means the mole is different than it was before. It might be getting bigger, changing color, shifting in shape, or developing new symptoms like itching, bleeding, or crusting. Any change in a mole or skin lesion is a reason to see a dermatologist.

What to do: Take photos of moles you want to track and compare them over time. If anything looks different from one month to the next, book an appointment.

What If a Mole Checks One of the ABCDE Boxes?

First, do not panic. Not every mole that hits one of these criteria is melanoma. Plenty of benign moles are slightly asymmetrical or a little larger than average. The ABCDEs are a screening tool, not a diagnosis.

What the ABCDEs are great for is giving you a reason to act. If a mole is flagging one or more of these signs, that is your cue to have it looked at by a professional. A dermatologist can examine it properly, and if necessary, perform a biopsy to get a definitive answer.

Catching melanoma early makes an enormous difference in outcomes. Early-stage melanoma is highly treatable. Advanced melanoma is a much harder fight.

Melanoma vs. Other Types of Skin Cancer

Melanoma gets a lot of attention, but it is worth knowing that it is not the only type of skin cancer. Legacy Dermatology also diagnoses and treats:

Basal cell carcinoma , the most common type of skin cancer, which tends to grow slowly on sun-exposed areas
Squamous cell carcinoma , which affects the outer layers of skin and can spread if left untreated
Actinic keratosis , a precancerous condition caused by sun damage that can develop into squamous cell carcinoma over time

The ABCDEs apply most specifically to melanoma, but any new or changing growth on your skin, regardless of type, is worth getting evaluated. You can learn more about all of these conditions on the skin cancer page at Legacy Dermatology.

When to See a Dermatologist

You should schedule a visit with a dermatologist if:

A mole meets one or more of the ABCDE criteria
You notice a new spot that was not there before
A spot is itching, bleeding, crusting, or not healing
A mole or growth is changing over time in any way
You have not had a professional skin check in more than a year
You have a personal or family history of melanoma or skin cancer

Do not talk yourself out of going. Dermatologists look at skin all day every day, and there is no such thing as a mole that is "probably fine" until someone qualified tells you it is fine.

How Legacy Dermatology Can Help

Dr. Bradley at Legacy Dermatology in Algonquin, IL is board-certified and trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. The practice offers full-body skin checks , expert diagnosis, and a range of treatment options including Mohs micrographic surgery for confirmed skin cancer cases.

If you have a mole that has been on your mind, stop wondering and get it checked. That is what the team at Legacy Dermatology is here for.

Explore the full list of dermatology services or learn more about mole removal if that is something you are considering.

FAQs About Melanoma Warning Signs

What does an early melanoma look like? Early melanoma often looks like a mole that is asymmetrical, has uneven or ragged borders, shows more than one color, is larger than 6 millimeters, or has changed over time. Some early melanomas are small and subtle, which is why professional skin checks matter even when nothing looks obviously wrong.

Can melanoma develop in a mole I have had for years? Yes. Melanoma can develop in an existing mole or appear as a brand new spot. That is why the E in ABCDE, evolving, is so important. Any change in a mole you have had for a long time is worth reporting to your dermatologist.

Is melanoma always caused by sun exposure? Sun exposure is the leading risk factor, but not the only one. Melanoma can develop in areas that never see the sun, including the soles of the feet, under nails, and inside the mouth. Genetics also play a role, which is why family history matters.

How is melanoma diagnosed? A dermatologist will visually examine the spot and may use a dermatoscope for a closer look. If the mole appears suspicious, a biopsy will be performed. A small sample of tissue is removed and sent to a lab, where it is examined under a microscope to determine whether cancer cells are present.

Can melanoma be cured? When caught at an early stage, melanoma has a very high survival rate and is often fully treatable with surgery. Advanced melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body is more difficult to treat, which is why early detection is so critical.

What is the difference between melanoma and a regular mole? Regular moles are typically symmetrical, have smooth borders, show a single consistent color, are smaller than 6 millimeters, and stay stable over time. Melanoma tends to deviate from all of those norms. When in doubt, have a dermatologist take a look.

FAQs About Legacy Dermatology

Where is Legacy Dermatology located?

Legacy Dermatology is at 2230 Huntington Drive N, Unit C-1, Algonquin, IL 60102.

How do I book an appointment to have a mole checked?

Call (847) 603-4146 or schedule online . New patients are welcome.

Does Legacy Dermatology treat melanoma?

Yes. Dr. Bradley is trained to diagnose and treat melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. Treatment options include Mohs micrographic surgery and other approaches tailored to each patient's situation.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Visit the new patients page for everything you need to know before your first visit to Legacy Dermatology.

Do Not Wait on a Mole That Is Bothering You

The ABCDEs give you a solid starting point, but your instincts matter too. If something on your skin does not look right or has been on your mind, the best thing you can do is get it checked by a professional.

Call Legacy Dermatology at (847) 603-4146 or book your appointment online . Early detection is the single most powerful tool against melanoma, and it starts with one appointment.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, and should not be considered, medical advice. All information, content, and material available on this blog are for general informational purposes only. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The author and the blog disclaim any liability for the decisions you make based on the information provided. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Skin Cancer Screening in Algonquin, IL: What to Expect at Your Appointment

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:36:37 GMT

Key Points

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but it is also one of the most treatable when caught early.
A skin cancer screening is a full-body skin exam performed by a board-certified dermatologist.
Legacy Dermatology in Algonquin, IL offers skin cancer screenings and expert diagnosis for melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and actinic keratosis.
Screenings are quick, painless, and can genuinely save your life.
You do not need to wait for a suspicious spot to schedule a screening -- routine checks are always a smart move.

If you have been putting off a skin cancer screening, you are definitely not alone. A lot of people figure they will deal with it "if something looks weird." But here is the thing: by the time something looks obviously wrong, a problem may already be further along than it needs to be.

The good news? A skin cancer screening in Algonquin, IL at Legacy Dermatology is quick, comfortable, and genuinely one of the most proactive things you can do for your health. Here is everything you need to know before you book.

What Is a Skin Cancer Screening?

A skin cancer screening is a full-body visual exam performed by a board-certified dermatologist. Your provider looks at your skin from head to toe, checking for any spots, moles, growths, or changes that could indicate skin cancer or a precancerous condition.

It is not painful. It does not involve needles or any kind of procedure (unless your dermatologist finds something that needs a closer look). Most screenings take around 15 to 30 minutes.

Think of it like a dental cleaning for your skin. You go in, a professional checks everything out, and you leave knowing exactly where you stand.

Who Should Get a Skin Cancer Screening?

Honestly? Most adults should be getting screened regularly. But you may want to prioritize booking sooner rather than later if you:

Spend a lot of time outdoors or have had significant sun exposure over the years
Have a history of sunburns, especially bad ones earlier in life
Use or have used tanning beds
Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
Have a lot of moles or atypical-looking moles
Have fair skin, light eyes, or light hair
Work outdoors or live in a high-UV environment
Have noticed a new spot or a mole that has changed in size, shape, or color

Even if none of those apply to you, a baseline screening is still a great idea. You cannot protect what you do not know about.

What Happens During a Skin Cancer Screening at Legacy Dermatology?

Here is a simple breakdown of what your appointment looks like:

Before Your Appointment

You do not need to do anything special to prepare. If you wear nail polish, it is a good idea to remove it beforehand since dermatologists check the skin under and around your nails too. Come with clean, dry skin and skip the heavy lotions if possible.

If you are a new patient, you can get started at the new patients page before your visit.

At Your Appointment

When you arrive, a medical assistant will get you checked in and take some basic health history information. You will then change into a gown so Dr. Bradley can examine your skin thoroughly.

Dr. Bradley will go over your body systematically, checking your scalp, face, neck, chest, back, arms, legs, and feet. A dermatoscope (a small handheld magnifying device with a light) may be used to get a closer look at specific spots.

After the Exam

If everything looks fine, great! Your dermatologist will likely recommend how often you should come back based on your personal risk factors.

If something catches Dr. Bradley's eye, that does not mean it is automatically cancer. It just means it warrants a second look. In some cases, a biopsy may be recommended. A biopsy is a simple procedure where a tiny sample of skin tissue is collected and sent to a lab for analysis. It is quick and done right in the office.

What Types of Skin Cancer Does Legacy Dermatology Screen For?

At Legacy Dermatology, Dr. Bradley is trained to identify and diagnose all major types of skin cancer , including:

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. It starts in the pigment-producing cells of the skin and can spread to other parts of the body if it goes undetected. Early detection is everything with melanoma.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It tends to grow slowly and rarely spreads, but it still needs to be treated. Left alone, it can cause significant damage to surrounding tissue.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma starts in the outer layers of the skin and is often found on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, and hands. It can spread if not addressed.

Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratosis is not cancer, but it is a precancerous condition. These rough, scaly patches develop from years of sun exposure and can turn into squamous cell carcinoma over time. Catching and treating them early is a big deal.

What Treatments Are Available If Something Is Found?

Finding something suspicious at a screening does not mean you are looking at a major ordeal. Legacy Dermatology offers several treatment options depending on what is found, including:

Mohs micrographic surgery , a precise surgical technique that removes skin cancer layer by layer with the highest cure rates available
Cryotherapy , which uses cold to destroy abnormal tissue
Biopsy for diagnosis
Excisions for removing growths

Your dermatologist will walk you through the best option for your specific situation. No cookie-cutter treatment plans here.

Why Choose Legacy Dermatology for Skin Cancer Screening in Algonquin, IL?

Legacy Dermatology is a board-certified dermatology practice right here in Algonquin. Dr. Bradley brings specialized training in diagnosing and treating all forms of skin cancer, including the most complex cases.

The practice is welcoming, unhurried, and focused on making sure you actually understand what is going on with your skin. Whether you are coming in for a routine screening or you have a specific spot that is been bothering you, Legacy Dermatology is a great place to start.

Learn more about the practice and the team at the about us page , or browse the full range of dermatology services available.

FAQs About Skin Cancer Screening in Algonquin, IL

How often should I get a skin cancer screening?

Most dermatologists recommend an annual full-body skin exam for adults. If you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, or a large number of moles, your dermatologist may recommend more frequent visits.

Does a skin cancer screening hurt?

Not at all. A standard skin cancer screening is purely visual. Your dermatologist looks at your skin with their eyes and a handheld device. Nothing is cut, poked, or injected unless a follow-up biopsy is needed.

What should I wear to a skin cancer screening appointment?

Wear something easy to take off. You will change into a gown for the exam. Skip nail polish on fingers and toes if you can, since the skin around and under nails gets checked too.

Does insurance cover skin cancer screenings?

Coverage varies by plan. It is worth calling your insurance provider ahead of time. Legacy Dermatology can also help answer billing questions during your visit.

Can I get a skin cancer screening even if I do not have a suspicious spot?

Absolutely. Routine screenings are encouraged even when everything looks fine to you. Your dermatologist is trained to see things the untrained eye often misses.

FAQs About Legacy Dermatology

Where is Legacy Dermatology located?

Legacy Dermatology is located at 2230 Huntington Drive N, Unit C-1, Algonquin, IL 60102.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can call the office at (847) 603-4146 or schedule online here .

Is Legacy Dermatology accepting new patients?

Yes! Legacy Dermatology is currently welcoming new patients. Visit the new patients page to get started.

What types of dermatology services does Legacy Dermatology offer?

Legacy Dermatology offers a full range of general, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology services. You can explore everything available on the dermatology services page .

What are Legacy Dermatology's office hours?

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The practice is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Ready to Book Your Skin Cancer Screening in Algonquin, IL?

Your skin works hard every single day. Give it the attention it deserves. Whether you are due for a routine check or you have a spot you want looked at, the team at Legacy Dermatology is here to help.

Call (847) 603-4146 or schedule your appointment online today. Early detection really does make all the difference.