Melanomas can vary greatly in the way they look. The first sign of a melanoma is usually a change in an existing freckle or mole or the appearance of a new spot. 

The change may be in:

• Colour: blotchy with a wide variety of colours, such as brown, black, blue, red, white and/or light grey.

• Size: begins to grow

• Shape: irregular edge (scalloped or notched). If a line was drawn through the middle of the melanoma, the two sides would not match up. It may increase in height or become scaly.

A freckle or mole that itches from time to time or bleeds can suggest a change. Changes are normally noticed over several weeks or months rather than days.

It is normal for new moles to appear and change during childhood and pregnancy. However, in adults a new mole could be a melanoma. Talk to your doctor about any changes.

Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, but mainly develops in areas that are usually or occasionally exposed to the sun.