Melanoma Awareness: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Skin
At Modern Aesthetics, skin health is at the heart of what we do—and that includes raising awareness about serious conditions like melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Knowing what to look for and how to protect yourself can truly be life-saving.
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. While it’s less common than other skin cancers like basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is far more aggressive and can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not caught early.
Risk Factors for Melanoma
While anyone can develop melanoma, certain factors increase your risk:
Excessive sun exposure, especially without protection
History of sunburns, especially blistering burns in childhood
Tanning bed use
Fair skin, light eyes, and freckles
A large number of moles, or atypical/dysplastic moles
Family or personal history of melanoma
If you identify with one or more of these factors, regular skin checks should be a priority.
Early Detection: Know Your ABCDEs
One of the best ways to detect melanoma early is to monitor your moles and spots using the ABCDE rule:
A – Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other
B – Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges
C – Color: Varied shades of brown, black, tan, or even red, white, or blue
D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation—or new symptoms like bleeding or itching
Prevention Is Key
You can significantly reduce your risk of melanoma by practicing sun-safe habits every day:
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Avoid tanning beds altogether
Get annual skin checks with a dermatologist and perform monthly self-exams
What If You Notice Something?
Don’t wait. If you see a mole or spot that looks suspicious—or just doesn’t seem right—schedule an appointment immediately. Early detection of melanoma leads to a 99% five-year survival rate. When caught late, that number drops significantly.
Our Role in Skin Health
At Modern Aesthetics, our focus goes beyond beauty—we are your partners in long-term skin wellness. If you’re unsure about a spot, mole, or lesion, we’re here to help guide you to the right care or connect you with dermatology professionals for a biopsy or further evaluation.
Final Thoughts
Melanoma is serious—but it’s also highly preventable and treatable when caught early. Make sun protection a daily habit, know what changes to look for, and prioritize regular skin exams. Your skin is your body’s largest organ—let’s protect it together.
If you have questions or want to book a skincare consultation, reach out to us today. Your skin—and your health—are worth it.