At Vanguard Skin Specialists, we combine expert clinical assessment with on-site dermatopathology and a commitment to rapid follow-up. You can feel confident your skin is truly cared for when you have a concerning spot or mole.
Spots and moles are common. For most people, they’re harmless. However, sometimes, it’s necessary to see a dermatologist.
Many skin spots are harmless, but some changes can signal a higher risk of skin cancer. Knowing what to look for can help you decide when it’s time to have a spot checked by a professional.
The ABCDEs are a simple, widely utilized guide that dermatologists use to identify warning signs of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. A spot does not need to meet every criterion to be concerning—any one of these changes is worth evaluating.
One half of the mole does not match the other in shape or color.
The edges are irregular, blurred, or uneven rather than smooth.
It contains multiple shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
The spot is larger than 6 millimeters or about the size of a pencil eraser.
It changes over time in shape, size, texture, or color, or it begins itching or bleeding and doesn’t heal.
Moles that look different from usual ones in shape, size, or color may require closer observation or removal.
Growths such as actinic keratoses (rough, scaly patches caused by sun exposure) that can progress to skin cancer if untreated.
Spots that persist, bleed, change, or don’t heal may warrant professional evaluation.
Treatment depends on the type of lesion and your individual needs.
When it comes to skin cancer, time matters. At Vanguard Skin Specialists, we believe no patient with a potentially concerning spot should wait long for answers. That’s why we created the WOW Promise—Within One Week.
If you have a mole, lesion, or spot that looks suspicious or is causing concern, our team will ensure you are seen by one of our dermatology providers Within One Week of contacting us. This commitment reflects our mission to provide exceptional, compassionate care when you need it most.
Your medical provider will begin by carefully examining the spot that concerns you. They may also recommend a total body skin exam (TBSE) to check for other areas of concern.
If needed, your provider may perform a biopsy to better understand what’s happening. A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue under local anesthesia, which is then evaluated under a microscope by our in-house dermatopathology lab.
Once the results are available—typically within 1–2 weeks—your provider will review the findings with you and discuss any recommended next steps.
Sun protection is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of skin cancer and prevent premature skin aging. These dermatologist-approved tips can help you protect your skin year-round, whether you’re spending time outdoors, enjoying Colorado’s high-altitude sunshine, or simply going about your daily routine.
