Spot Skin Changes Early: What to Watch for on Your Skin

It’s easy to brush off a small spot or mole — especially during busy summer months filled with time at the lake, yard work, and getting outdoors across our community. Many skin changes seem harmless at first glance. But in some cases, those subtle changes are worth a closer look.

At Perham Health, we see firsthand how early awareness can make a meaningful difference. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with an estimated 5.4 million non-melanoma skin cancers diagnosed annually and over 100,000 new cases of melanoma expected in 2026. But it’s also one of the most treatable when detected early — melanoma that has not spread has a five-year survival rate approaching 99%, compared to just 35% when diagnosed after it has spread. Taking a few minutes to check your skin can help you catch changes early and feel more confident about your health.

“People often assume a spot isn’t serious because it doesn’t hurt,” says Dr. Corina Jacob, Family Medicine Provider at Perham Health. “But skin changes can be very gradual. If something looks different or is evolving over time, it’s important to have it evaluated.”

Summer brings more sun exposure than any other time of year, increasing the risk for skin damage. In fact, an estimated 92% of melanoma cases are attributable to ultraviolet radiation exposure. That doesn’t mean you need to avoid the outdoors — just that it’s important to protect your skin and know what to watch for.

From wearing sunscreen to recognizing early warning signs, a few simple steps can go a long way in keeping your skin healthy all season long. And while these reminders may not feel new or groundbreaking, they are the habits that consistently make the biggest difference over time. Research has shown that daily sunscreen use can reduce the risk of squamous cell skin cancer by 38% and significantly lower the risk of invasive melanoma.

“At appointments, we often revisit these same basics,” Dr. Jacob adds. “They may seem simple, but they’re what help prevent long-term damage and help patients stay ahead of potential concerns.”

Quick Summer Skin Check: Simple Habits That Matter

• Apply sunscreen every day
  The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on all uncovered skin, and reapplying every two hours when outdoors. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UV-B rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98% — but no sunscreen blocks all UV rays, so regular reapplication is essential.
• Plan around peak sun hours
  Limit direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when ultraviolet radiation is strongest.
• Cover up when you can
  Wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and lightweight long-sleeved clothing add meaningful protection.
• Hydrate regularly
  Healthy skin starts with enough water.
• Check your skin monthly
  The American Academy of Dermatology recommends regular self-exams, especially for higher-risk individuals. About 47% of melanomas are first noticed by the patient themselves, so knowing your own skin matters. Look for new or changing spots — early detection saves lives.

What to Watch For: The ABCDE Rule

In addition to prevention, it’s important to know what changes to look for. The ABCDE rule was developed over 40 years ago and remains the global standard for initial evaluation of pigmented skin lesions. It’s a simple way to evaluate moles or spots on your skin:

• A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
• B – Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred
• C – Color: Uneven color or multiple shades (tan, brown, black, and sometimes red, white, or blue)
• D – Diameter: Larger than about 6 mm (pencil eraser size), though melanomas can sometimes be smaller
• E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or symptoms

Another helpful concept is the “ugly duckling” sign — a mole that simply looks different from the others on your body. Research shows this is one of the most important factors in identifying melanoma.

“Most moles are harmless, but when one stands out from the others, that’s something we want patients to pay attention to,” says Dr. Jacob. “We’d always rather take a look and provide reassurance — or catch something early.”

When to Seek Medical Care for Skin Spots

Most skin changes are not serious, but it’s important to reach out if you notice:

• A new or changing mole
• A spot that looks different from others
• A sore that doesn’t heal
• Itching, bleeding, or increasing pain in a lesion
• A shiny, pearly, or translucent bump

Approximately 30% of melanomas develop from existing moles, so changes in a mole you’ve had for years can still be significant. If you notice a spot that concerns you, your primary care provider can take a closer look and help determine next steps.

A Healthy Summer Starts with Awareness

At Perham Health, our goal is to provide trusted care close to home and help our community stay well in every season. Minnesota summers are meant to be enjoyed — and with a little awareness, you can protect your skin while making the most of your time outdoors.

If you have questions about a skin change or would like a professional skin check, contact Perham Health to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. Early evaluation can provide peace of mind — and, when needed, early treatment makes all the difference.