Symptoms of teen melanoma (skin cancer)

Teenagers love to look good and with the modern pre-occupation with bronzed skin many teens hit the sun beds, exposing themselves to dangerous levels of ultra violet light which can lead to melanomas or skin cancers.

Melanomas usually start as a strange looking mole. It can be difficult to tell if a new mole is abnormal if it it is simple a new mole. Look for the following to determine whether a new mole is abnormal (if in any doubt, consult your doctor)

Asymmetry – Ordinary moles are usually even in shape all the way round. Melanomas are likely to have an irregular or asymmetrical shape.

Border – Moles usually have a smooth-looking edge. Melanomas are more likely to have jagged edges.

Colour – Moles are normally one colour (brown or black). But melanomas can have different shades of brown mixed with black, red, pink, white or even a blue.

Diameter – Moles are normally no bigger than 6mm across. Melanomas tend to grow bigger than this.