Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world. That’s why it’s so important to know the skin cancer symptoms to watch for. Many moles and freckles are harmless, but some changes can be an early sign of skin cancer. Spotting these warning signs early can lead to faster treatment and better outcomes.
Regular skin self-checks, paired with professional skin exams, are the best way to catch suspicious changes before they turn into something more serious.
For a full guide on prevention, screening, and early detection, read our pillar blog: Skin Cancer Checks Canberra: Complete Guide to Early Detection, Screening and Prevention.
Why Knowing Skin Cancer Symptoms Matters
Skin cancer tends to develop slowly and often doesn’t hurt in its early stages. Because the signs can be subtle, many people put off seeing a doctor.
Recognising skin cancer symptoms early can help:
Catch skin cancer before it spreads
Improve your chances of successful treatment
Reduce the need for more complex treatment
Protect healthy skin tissue
Give you peace of mind through early checks
Routine skin checks matter even more for Australians, given how much UV exposure we get year-round.
1. A Mole Changes in Size
A mole that slowly grows bigger is one of the most common warning signs.
Some moles naturally change during childhood, but one that keeps growing in adulthood should be checked by a GP.
If you notice steady growth over weeks or months, don’t brush it off.
2. Irregular or Uneven Borders
Healthy moles usually have smooth, well-defined edges.
A suspicious mole might have:
Jagged edges
Blurry borders
Uneven outlines
A lopsided shape
These changes can point to abnormal skin cells and should be checked soon.
3. Colour Changes
One of the most noticeable skin cancer symptoms is a shift in colour.
Watch for moles that turn:
Darker than before
Black
Red
White
Blue
A mix of several colours
Uneven colouring should always be looked at by a healthcare professional.
4. Itching, Bleeding or Crusting
Not all skin cancers hurt, but some start to itch or bleed.
Book a skin check if a mole:
Itches a lot
Bleeds without being injured
Forms a crust
Becomes tender
Keeps oozing
Don’t write these symptoms off as regular skin irritation.
5. A Sore That Doesn’t Heal
A sore that stays open for weeks, or keeps healing and coming back, could be a sign of skin cancer.
Sores like this need prompt medical attention, especially on sun-exposed spots like the face, ears, scalp, neck, and arms.
6. A New Mole Appears After Age 30
Most moles show up during childhood and early adulthood.
A new mole later in life isn’t always something to worry about, but it should be checked by a professional if it looks different from your other moles or changes fast.
7. Rapid Changes in an Existing Mole
This might be the most important of all the skin cancer symptoms: fast change.
See a doctor if a mole changes in:
Size
Shape
Colour
Thickness
Surface texture
Height
Feeling
The quicker the change happens, the sooner you should get it checked.
Use the ABCDE Rule to Check Your Skin
A Simple Way to Monitor Moles
The ABCDE guide makes it easier to spot suspicious changes.
A – Asymmetry
One side of the mole doesn’t match the other.
B – Border
The edges look uneven or irregular.
C – Colour
The mole has more than one colour, or the colour looks patchy.
D – Diameter
The mole grows bigger than about 6mm.
E – Evolving
The Most Important Warning Sign
Any mole that changes in look, size, colour, or feeling should be checked by your GP.
What Happens During a Skin Examination?
If you spot possible skin cancer symptoms, your GP will give you a thorough check.
This may include:
Medical History
Your doctor will ask about:
Past skin cancers
Family history
Sun exposure
Any changes you’ve noticed
Full Skin Check
Your skin gets checked from head to toe for suspicious moles, sores, or growths.
Dermoscopy
A Closer Look
Your GP may use a dermatoscope to magnify and examine suspicious spots more closely, helping decide if further testing is needed.
If needed, a biopsy or referral may be arranged.
Protect Your Skin Every Day
Screening matters, but prevention is just as important.
Healthy Sun Protection Habits
Lower Your Risk
Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily
Wear protective clothing
Use a broad-brimmed hat
Wear UV-protective sunglasses
Stay in the shade during peak UV hours
Skip tanning beds
Do monthly skin self-checks
Book routine GP skin exams
These simple habits can lower your lifetime risk of skin cancer by a lot.
Why Choose Greenway Medical Centre?
Greenway Medical Centre offers thorough skin cancer assessments for patients across Greenway, Tuggeranong, and Canberra.
Our experienced GPs provide:
Detailed skin exams
Checks of suspicious moles and lesions
Dermoscopy when clinically needed
Personalised skin cancer risk assessments
Ongoing monitoring
Preventive skin health advice
We’re committed to helping patients catch skin cancer early through quality, patient-focused care.
Continue Reading
To learn more about skin cancer screening, prevention, and early detection, read our pillar guide:
Skin Cancer Checks Canberra: Complete Guide to Early Detection, Screening and Prevention
This resource explains when to book a skin check, what to expect at your appointment, and how regular screening protects your health long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the most common skin cancer symptoms?
Common symptoms include a changing mole, irregular borders, colour changes, ongoing itching, bleeding, and sores that won’t heal.
2. Should every changing mole be checked?
Yes. Most changes turn out to be harmless, but every new or changing mole is worth having a GP look at.
3. Can skin cancer develop without pain?
Yes. Many skin cancers don’t hurt at all in their early stages, which is why regular skin checks matter so much.
4. How often should I have a professional skin check?
It depends on your personal risk factors. Your GP can suggest a screening schedule that fits you.
5. Can early detection improve treatment outcomes?
Yes. Catching skin cancer early usually means simpler treatment and a better chance of full recovery.
Conclusion
Recognising skin cancer symptoms and acting fast can make a real difference to your health. If you spot changes in a mole or notice anything unusual on your skin, don’t wait to see a doctor. Regular self-checks, sun protection, and routine professional skin exams are still the best ways to catch skin cancer early and keep your skin healthy. Book your next skin check at Greenway Medical Centre and take a proactive step for your skin health.
Phone: (02) 6100 9956
Address: Unit 6/175 Anketell St, Greenway ACT 2900
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