23 Sep Why Annual Mole Checks Matter and Why Fall Is the Best Time
Your skin tells a story—and sometimes, it may be trying to warn you. At RefinedMD, annual mole checks are a vital part of keeping that story a healthy one. A full-body skin exam is one of the easiest and most effective ways to detect early signs of skin cancer or other dermatological concerns, especially when performed consistently every year.
Autumn marks the shift to cooler weather, fewer hours of direct sun, and a return to routine after the unpredictability of summer. It also happens to be one of the most practical and strategic times of year to book your annual mole check. If you haven’t scheduled yours yet, now is the time.
What a Mole Check Involves
A professional mole check is quick, painless, and non-invasive. It typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes and is performed by a dermatologist who specializes in identifying changes in your skin that may indicate precancerous or cancerous lesions. You’ll be asked to disrobe (you’ll be offered a gown) so that your provider can inspect every inch of your skin—from your scalp to the soles of your feet.
Dermatologists look for common red flags, including:
- New moles or growths
- Changes in shape, color, or size of existing moles
- Asymmetry or uneven borders
- Itching, bleeding, or crusting lesions
- Unusual pigmentation or rapidly evolving spots
If any mole appears suspicious, a quick biopsy may be recommended. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind—and potentially lifesaving information.
Why Timing Matters
While a mole check can technically be done at any time of the year, autumn has distinct advantages. Summer sun exposure can cause subtle changes to your skin, including sunspots, freckles, and damage that might not have been visible before. Once the skin has calmed from its summer exposure, these changes become easier for a dermatologist to detect.
Cooler weather also makes post-biopsy care easier. If you have a spot removed, you won’t have to worry about excessive sweating, swimming, or sun exposure that could irritate the area. Healing tends to be faster and less complicated during the fall and winter months.
A Return to Routine
Autumn is also when most people settle back into their normal schedules. Vacations are over, the kids are back in school, and you may find yourself with a more predictable calendar. It’s a great opportunity to prioritize your health, including the things that are easy to put off—like your annual mole check.
Plus, getting it done now means you’ll be clear-headed and confident heading into the holiday season, knowing you’re taking proactive steps for your long-term health.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and early detection is critical. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, has a 99 percent five-year survival rate when caught early—but that rate drops dramatically as the cancer progresses. Many skin cancers start off looking like harmless moles, freckles, or age spots, which is why trained eyes are essential.
Without regular monitoring, changes can go unnoticed. A mole that looked fine last year may have developed concerning features, and if you don’t check, you won’t know. That’s why a consistent, annual exam is so important—it creates a clear record of your skin’s baseline, making it easier to spot changes.
Who Needs a Mole Check? Everyone
There’s a misconception that only people with fair skin or a history of sunburns need regular mole checks. In reality, skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of skin tone, age, or sun habits. While some individuals are at higher risk—such as those with many moles, a family history of skin cancer, or extensive UV exposure—everyone benefits from yearly exams.
You should also consider more frequent checks if you:
- Use tanning beds or have in the past
- Have had precancerous lesions or skin cancer previously
- Spend a lot of time outdoors for work or hobbies
- Notice any changing moles, spots, or skin abnormalities
A Simple Check Can Save Your Life
There are few health screenings as fast, simple, and accessible as a mole check—and even fewer with such potential impact. It’s an empowering way to take control of your skin health. The exam may only take a few minutes, but the benefits can last a lifetime.
If you’re due (or overdue) for your annual mole check, there’s no better time than now. Autumn offers the perfect combination of convenience, recovery conditions, and clinical visibility. At RefinedMD, we take skin health seriously, and our team is here to help you stay proactive, protected, and informed.
Contact RefinedMD today by calling the office or completing the online form to schedule your annual mole check.