Warmer weather is finally here! At least today it’s warm, tomorrow snow, sleet or hail, who knows? All weather aside, Spring is a great time to check up on your skin health. We are busy women and it’s easy to let a skin check up slide in favor of more pressing issues like work or family. We may not even pay much attention to all the little moles, age spots and other issues that come up with our skin. All it takes is a few minutes to protect your health and fix any issues before they become complicated problems.
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, and women of all ages can be affected. When it is caught early, it’s highly treatable. That’s why it’s important to notice your moles and take action when you notice things changing.
Your skin really tells a story about your overall health, whether you know it or not. Freckles, moles, and spots are all part of that story, and most of them are completely harmless. Occasionally, a mole can change in a way that signals something more serious. The key is knowing what’s normal for you so you can spot anything unusual.
A helpful way to remember what to look for is the “ABCDE” rule:
- A for Asymmetry – One half doesn’t match the other
- B for Border – Edges are irregular, jagged, or blurred
- C for Color – Multiple shades or uneven coloring
- D for Diameter – Larger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm)
- E for Evolving – Any change in size, shape, color, or sensation
If a mole checks any of these boxes, it doesn’t automatically mean cancer, but it does mean it’s worth getting checked by a professional.
Developing good skin habits is easier than you think. Once a month, take a few minutes after a shower to do a quick scan. Use a mirror (or two) for tricky spots, and don’t forget areas like your scalp, back, and the backs of your legs.
And yes, this is one of those moments where your phone can actually help you. Taking photos of moles you want to keep an eye on can make it easier to notice subtle changes over time. It’s like creating a little “skin journal” without any extra effort.
It’s also worth mentioning that skin cancer doesn’t only happen to people who spend hours in the sun. While UV exposure is a major factor, anyone can develop it—even if you’re diligent about sunscreen (which you should absolutely keep using, by the way).
At the end of the day, checking your moles is about staying in tune with your body. You don’t need to stress over every freckle or spot. Just pay attention, trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your favorite provider at Madison Women’s Clinic and we can help with a plan to move ahead.
Your future self will thank you for those few extra minutes of care. And honestly, that’s a pretty small investment for a whole lot of peace of mind.
