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Mole Check

A mole check is a clinical assessment of moles and pigmented skin lesions to evaluate their appearance and identify any changes that may require closer attention. While most moles are harmless, some can change over time. A professional review by a dermatologist can help provide clarity, reassurance, and guidance on whether monitoring or further evaluation is needed.

What is a mole check?

A mole check involves a medical examination of moles, freckles, and other pigmented spots on the skin. The assessment looks at features such as size, shape, colour, and symmetry, as well as any recent changes you may have noticed.

Mole checks are suitable for:

  • Assessing new or changing moles
  • Reviewing moles that appear unusual
  • Evaluating pigmented lesions that cause concern
  • Providing reassurance when a mole looks different from others

Why a mole check may be helpful

Moles can change due to age, sun exposure, hormones, or other factors. In some cases, changes may warrant closer observation or further investigation.

A mole check can help to:

  • Clarify whether a mole appears benign or needs monitoring
  • Identify features that may require additional assessment
  • Guide next steps in a structured and informed way
  • Address uncertainty or concerns about skin changes

When to consider a mole check

You may wish to consider a mole check if you notice a new mole appearing in adulthood, or if an existing mole has changed in size, shape, or colour over time. Moles that look noticeably different from others on your skin, or that cause symptoms such as itching, bleeding, crusting, or unexplained discomfort, may also benefit from assessment. Individuals with a personal or family history of skin cancer, as well as those with significant past sun exposure or repeated sunburns, may choose to have moles reviewed for reassurance and guidance.

The ABCDE guide to mole changes

The ABCDE guide is a commonly used tool to raise awareness of mole features that may warrant review. It is not a diagnostic test, but a general reference to help identify changes that should be checked by a dermatologist. Not all concerning moles meet these criteria, and not all moles that meet these criteria are harmful. A clinical assessment is needed to determine significance.

A

Asymmetry

One half of the mole does not match the other.
B

Border

Edges may appear irregular, uneven, or poorly defined.
C

Colour

The mole shows uneven shades of brown, black, red, or other colours.
D

Diameter

The mole is larger than 6mm, although smaller moles may also be assessed if changing.
E

Evolving

Any change over time in size, shape, colour, or symptoms.

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What happens during a mole check

During a mole check, our dermatologist may:

  • Review your medical and skin history
  • Discuss any changes or symptoms you’ve noticed
  • Visually examine the mole or lesion
  • Use a dermatoscope for closer evaluation
  • Explain the findings and advise on next steps
The consultation is focused on explanation, reassurance, and appropriate guidance rather than immediate intervention.

Conditions that may be identified during an assessment

During a mole check and related skin assessment, a range of benign and malignant skin conditions may be identified. Many findings are non-cancerous and require only reassurance or monitoring, while others may need further evaluation.

These may include:

  • Benign moles (melanocytic naevi)
    Common, non-cancerous moles that may vary in size, shape, and colour.
  • Atypical (dysplastic) moles
    Moles with unusual features that may be monitored or assessed further.
  • Seborrhoeic keratoses
    Benign growths that often appear as raised, pigmented, or “stuck-on” lesions.
  • Lentigines (sun spots)
    Flat, pigmented patches related to sun exposure.
  • Basal cell carcinoma
    A common form of skin cancer that typically grows slowly.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma
    A skin cancer that may develop in sun-exposed areas.
  • Melanoma
    A less common but more serious form of skin cancer that arises from pigment-producing cells.
Not all lesions identified require treatment. Our dermatologist, Dr Laura Hui will explain the findings and advise whether observation, further investigation, or management is appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions​

No. Most moles are benign and do not cause harm. A mole check helps assess whether a mole appears typical or whether it would benefit from monitoring or further evaluation.
A mole check focuses on assessing specific moles or pigmented lesions that are of concern. If a mole appears atypical, further assessment may be recommended as part of the diagnostic process.
No. Many moles that look unusual do not require removal. Some may simply be monitored over time, while others may need further evaluation. The approach depends on clinical findings and individual circumstances.
If a mole requires further evaluation, our dermatologist will discuss the findings with you and explain the recommended next steps. These may include monitoring, biopsy, or referral for further management.

Book a mole check

If you have a mole that concerns you or would like an assessment with our dermatologist, Dr Laura Hui, you may book an appointment for a mole check.

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