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Early Signs of Melanoma

Understand early melanoma signs, including changing moles, ugly duckling spots, color variation, bleeding, itching, and hidden areas.

Common warning signs

Melanoma can appear as a new spot or as a change in an existing mole. The American Cancer Society highlights new spots, changing spots, and spots that look different from the rest as important warning signs. [2]

Symptoms such as itchiness, tenderness, bleeding, oozing, scaliness, or a surface lump are also reasons to contact a doctor. [2]

The ugly duckling sign

Most people have a personal pattern to their moles. A spot that breaks that pattern can stand out even before it fits the full ABCDE checklist.

Dermela can make this comparison easier by keeping same-angle photos in a timeline, but the decision to biopsy or monitor belongs to a licensed clinician.

Hidden and less obvious places

Some melanomas appear in areas people may not check often, including nails, palms, soles, the scalp, or mucosal areas. The American Cancer Society notes that melanoma can appear in places not exposed to the sun. [2]

That is why a skin self-exam should be systematic rather than limited to the arms and face.

References

  1. [2] Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma Skin Cancer, American Cancer Society.
  2. [1] What to look for: ABCDEs of melanoma, American Academy of Dermatology.

Written by

Dermela Editorial Team

Health technology editorial team

Dermela's editorial team writes patient-friendly skin tracking education and cites dermatology and cancer authority sources.

Medically reviewed by

Medical reviewer pending

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Last reviewed: May 2, 2026

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Frequently asked questions

Does melanoma always look dark?

No. Some melanomas have multiple colors, and some may be lighter or less obvious. Any new or changing spot deserves attention.

Is an itchy mole always melanoma?

No. Itching has many causes, but a mole that changes, itches, bleeds, or hurts should be checked by a clinician.

Can melanoma appear under a nail?

Yes. Some melanomas can appear as a dark line or streak under a fingernail or toenail.