Mole mapping and full-body photography

Mole mapping is a way of tracking your moles over time using photographs. Photos of your skin are taken and saved to your chart, and at later visits your provider compares your skin to them to find new or changing spots.

Photographs can help identify changes but do not replace skin examinations or a biopsy when a spot is suspicious.

Who it helps

• People with many moles
• People with atypical moles
• People with a personal or family history of melanoma
• People who find it hard to keep track of their own spots

What to expect

Photos are taken of your skin in a series of standard poses, and close-up images may be taken of individual moles. Your provider reviews the photos with you and at each follow-up skin check. Please tell us if you are not comfortable with any area being photographed.

Where it is offered

Mole mapping Q&A

Related care

• Moles
• Melanoma and high-risk follow-up
• Skin checks and skin cancer screening