Should I be concerned if a mole gets darker?

It’s important to get a new or existing mole checked out if it: changes shape or looks uneven. changes colour, gets darker or has more than 2 colours. starts itching, crusting, flaking or bleeding.

Can a black mole appear suddenly?

Moles, or nevi, typically form during childhood and adolescence, but new moles can appear in adulthood. Although most moles are noncancerous, or benign, the development of a new mole or sudden changes to existing moles in an adult can be a sign of melanoma.

How quickly do cancerous moles change?

Melanoma can grow very quickly. It can become life-threatening in as little as 6 weeks and, if untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma can appear on skin not normally exposed to the sun.

Is melanoma black?

Melanoma often contains shades of brown, black, or tan, but some can be red or pink, such as the one shown here. Still you can see some of the ABCDEs here.

Can moles be black in color?

The typical mole is a brown spot. But moles come in different colors, shapes and sizes: Color and texture. Moles can be brown, tan, black, red, blue or pink.

Are melanomas black?

Melanoma often contains shades of brown, black, or tan, but some can be red or pink, such as the one shown here.

Can melanoma have a bruise around it?

Acral lentiginous melanoma may look like a bruise that does not go away. The lesion is usually black or brown.

Why does my mole have a bruise around it?

Any mole that is unusual, new, or changed should be seen by your doctor. An area of bruising or discoloration may come from an injury, but if you see any strange markings that can not be explained and do not heal quickly, they need to be checked out as well.

When is a mole concerning?

If you have any moles that are larger than most, have smudgy or irregular edges, are uneven in colour or have some pinkness, you should see a doctor and get them checked. Any moles that appear newly in adulthood should be checked. The most concerning sign, however, is a changing mole.