Introduction
Most skin moles are not a threat to your health. However, it's always smart to keep an eye on your moles and make sure they aren't changing. If a mole begins changing in appearance, it could lead to health issues, primarily melanoma. If you have dark skin, you can check your moles by visiting with your doctor, getting a family member to help you out or even doing it yourself.
Step 1
ASYMMETRY- Asymmetry is the first thing you'll need to look for when checking moles on dark skin. A healthy, non cancerous mole is usually round, the same color throughout and the same thickness throughout. If the mole on your dark skin is different in shape, size or color, this could be a problem.
Step 2
IRREGULARITY- When checking for moles on dark skin, pay close attention to the texture of the mole. For example, a healthy mole should be smooth. If you find that the mole is rugged, rough, scalloped or flaky in definition then this could also be a problem.
Step 3
COLOR- The color of a mole on dark skin is also another issue. It may be difficult to see the real color if you have dark skin but you should be able to get a feel for the color. A healthy mole will have a uniformed pigmentation throughout the entire mole. An unhealthy mole, usually appears to be tan and brown. An unhealthy mole can also have different shades of red or black in it, which should require immediate medical attention.
Step 4
DIAMETER- The diameter of the mole on dark skin is also important. If the mole is less than 6 inches in diameter, then it probably is not melanoma. However, melanoma moles are usually about the size of an eraser on the back of a pencil. If you feel the mole is bigger than it should be, it's time for a visit to the doctor.
Step 5
PAIN- Moles really should never be painful, on dark skin or otherwise. People should barely notice their existence. If your mole begins itching, scaling or bleeding, then it's definitely something to be concerned about.
Tips
Moles that are dangerous to our health, should try to be recognized and medically treated earlier on rather than later on. If a mole has melanoma and you detect it when it's small, then your chances of surviving increase. If you catch the mole while it's bigger and has been around a while, your chances decrease.
How To Examine Your Skin
In order to examine your dark skin for melanoma and other types of moles, all you'll need to do is get completely nude. Examine the front of your body in front of a mirror, lifting your arms as well. Bend your elbows, check out your hands, palms and arms. You also should check your legs, sit down and give them a good look over. Along with that, check your feet, and make sure not to forget in between the toes. Lastly, examine the back of your neck/head with a hand mirror. You should part your hair lines, just so you can get a better look at your scalp.
