Detecting melanoma when it's early enough to treat could mean the difference between life and a life-threatening illness. Get to know your own skin, take notice of all spots - especially NEW or CHANGING spots or anything that just doesn't look right!
Self-examine your skin every three months to spot any changes early. The first day of each season is a good way to remember "Change of season? Check for change!"
Check in a good light and include all of your skin, your scalp, soles of your feet and have a partner check your back and other hard to see areas.
Have an annual skin check with your GP, Skin Cancer Clinic or Dermatologist. Doctors use a number of tools and techniques to examine skin thoroughly, beyond what the naked eye can see.
See your doctor immediately if you see a change in your spots, a new spot or a spot that looks different to the others around it.
Use the ABCDE skin check method.
Visit our Check Mate website for more early detection information
How to check your own skin
The start of each new season is the perfect time to check your skin for any new spots or changes in existing spots. Don’t forget to check those tricky places (your head, back, toes, ears) and if you notice any change see your doctor.
Also, if you haven’t booked in for your annual skin check, get to it. A simple skin check could save your life!
You can use our easy to follow video guide by clicking here.
Stand in front of a full length mirror in a well lit room. Start at the top and work your way down your body.
Begin by using a brush to part your hair into sections so that you can check your scalp, ideally ask a partner or family member to check.
Move to your face and neck, not forgetting your ears, nostrils and lips.
Be sure to check both the top and underneath of your arms. Don’t forget your fingernails.
As you move down your body, don't forget to check places where the sun doesn't shine! Melanoma can be found in places that do not have exposed skin.
Ask a partner or family member to check your back and hard to see areas.