09/01/2026
As board-certified dermatologists, we spend the day looking closely at skin. Here’s what sends up flags:
- A new spot that wasn’t there a few months ago. Most melanomas actually show up this way, as something brand new rather than an existing mole gone rogue.
- A mole that’s changed. Different border, different color, bigger than it used to be, or just looks off compared to the others on your body.
- Anything that bleeds, itches, or won’t heal after a few weeks. Skin is supposed to heal itself. When it doesn’t, that’s information.
- A spot that looks different from everything else on your skin. Dermatologists call this the ugly duckling sign, and it’s often the fastest way we spot something worth a closer look.
The tricky part is that skin cancer can be subtle in its early stages, which is exactly why annual screenings matter, along with knowing your own skin between visits.
If something’s caught your eye, don’t wait for your next appointment to ask about it. Book a screening and let’s take a look together. 203.764.2230