It's important that you periodically go to the dermatologist to receive mole checks. The reason why is simple, and it can potentially be life-saving. Learn why you should have regular mole checks done and when to schedule them.
Your moles can change rapidly without notice
You can have a mole anywhere on your body, and these moles can change rapidly without any notice on your end. A dermatologist can tell if a mole has changed and is dangerous, however, by doing simple mole checks. Your dermatologist is looking for changes in a mole's color, texture, shape, and other features, and if your mole itches, bleeds, is otherwise irritated, or is getting larger, they can do a biopsy to see if there's anything serious going on.
Your moles can be dangerous even if they don't change
Sometimes a mole is just a skin pigmentation, and other times a mole is actually potentially dangerous. Only a dermatologist can tell if a mole should be removed by doing regular mole checks on your skin. Your dermatologist is especially looking for damages to moles that are usually exposed to the sun, so they will carefully monitor moles on your face, shoulders, neck, ears, and scalp, among other prime sun-exposed areas.
Your moles can appear out of nowhere
If you don't go in for regular mole checks, new moles that are a result of sun damage and potential skin cancers can go entirely unchecked. The sooner you notice the signs of skin cancer, the better. Only regular mole checks can help keep moles in line; your dermatologist takes pictures and notes of questionable moles at every appointment so you don't have to keep track on your own. If a new mole pops up, your dermatologist will know.
You should get mole checks done on your body at least once a year, but you should have this done more frequently if you have had skin cancer in the past or you have moles that your dermatologist wants to keep an eye on. The key lies in making sure you do both mole checks at home and mole checks at your dermatologist's office. If you're going mole checks at home, make sure to record notes on your moles regularly and share them with your dermatologist.
Never attempt to remove or otherwise damage a mole at home. Your dermatologist will do your mole checks for you and will recommend methods of treatment for various moles should they be required.
Did you know that dermatologists can do more than simply prescribe creams and washes? In addition to being skincare experts, they often carry out procedures like skin grafts, laser hair removal, and Botox injections. They are truly experts on all things skin-related, and therefore the dermatologist's office is the place you should go if you have any concerns about your own skin.
You can also ease your concerns by reading here. This website is not a substitute for dermatology care, but it is a good place to learn more about this field of medicine and the wonderful treatments it has to offer.