Ever wondered if that mole on your skin is harmless — or something more serious?
You’re not alone.
Many people have questions about when to get a mole checked, what to expect at the dermatologist, and how to spot changes at home.
In Central Alberta, where sun exposure can vary seasonally, regular mole checks are critical — they help catch skin cancer early, when it’s most treatable.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top questions patients ask about mole checks, including what happens during an appointment and how to monitor your skin between visits.
In This Article
Why Mole Checks Are Important
Moles are common and often harmless.
However, changes in a mole’s appearance—such as size, colour, or shape—can be early indicators of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer[1].
Risk factors include:
- Fair skin that burns easily
- Excessive sun exposure or tanning bed use
- Family history of melanoma
- Numerous or atypical moles
Early detection is crucial.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, melanomas caught in the earliest stage have a 99% cure rate.[2]
How Dermatologists Perform Mole Checks
Dermatologists perform thorough, full-body skin examinations. Key steps include:
- Visual inspection: Checking the scalp, nails, and areas not exposed to the sun.
- Dermatoscopy: Using a handheld device to examine moles in detail.
- Digital monitoring: Taking photographs of moles for comparison over time.
You can expect a non-invasive, pain-free process. Any mole that appears suspicious may be monitored or biopsied for further evaluation and assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mole Checks
How often should I have a mole check?
If you’re a low-risk patient, perform monthly self-exams and consult your family doctor if you notice any changes.
On the other hand, if you’re a high-risk patient, you may need to visit a dermatologist on an annual or semiannual basis.
What makes a mole suspicious?
Look for the ABCDEs:
Asymmetry – one half unlike the other
Border – irregular or poorly defined edges
Colour – uneven shades or multiple colours
Diameter – larger than 6 mm
Evolution – changing over time
Are mole checks painful?
No. The examination is visual and non-invasive. Biopsies, if necessary, involve a local anaesthetic.
Can I get a mole removed during the check?
Yes. If a mole is deemed suspicious, your dermatologist can often remove it safely in the office and send it for analysis.
Tips for Monitoring Your Moles at Home
- Perform monthly self-checks using a full-length mirror or a partner’s help.
- Track changes in size, colour, or shape.
- Note any itching, bleeding, or pain.
- Contact your family doctor promptly if you notice concerning changes.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Routine mole checks are a simple yet powerful way to protect yourself.
By combining self-monitoring with professional assessments from a dermatologist in Red Deer, you can catch potential issues early and maintain healthy skin.
Talk to your family doctor about getting a referral to Central Alberta Dermatology and take the first step toward peace of mind.
Sources
- [1] Melanoma Canada. (2025) What is Melanoma? The deadliest form of Skin Cancer. Retrieved September 26, 2025, from https://melanomacanada.ca/understanding-skin-cancer/melanoma/what-is-melanoma/
- [2] Cleveland Clinic. (2025) Melanoma: Symptoms, Staging & Treatment. Retrieved September 26, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14391-melanoma