Educational information only. Not medical advice and no dosing information. Melanotan I and II sold online are not FDA-approved. Talk to a licensed doctor.
Melanoma is much easier to treat when it's found early. Anyone who has used tanning products, sunbeds or melanotan should get familiar with their skin and check it regularly. The American Academy of Dermatology's American Academy of Dermatology: ABCDEs of melanoma guide is the standard tool.
The ABCDEs
A, Asymmetry: one half of the spot doesn't match the other half.
B, Border: the edge is irregular, ragged, notched or blurred.
C, Color: the color isn't the same all over. It may include shades of brown or black, or patches of pink, red, white or blue.
D, Diameter: melanomas are often larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.
E, Evolving: the spot is changing in size, shape or color, or starts to itch, bleed or crust.
The "ugly duckling" sign
Dermatologists also look for a mole that looks different from your other moles. A spot that stands out is worth having checked, even if it doesn't clearly match an ABCDE sign.
How to do a self-exam
Use a full-length mirror and a hand mirror in good light.
Check everywhere, including the scalp, the soles of your feet, between your toes, under your nails and your back. Ask a partner to help.
Take dated photos of moles so you can spot changes.
Repeat monthly.
When to see a dermatologist
Make an appointment promptly for any new, changing, or unusual spot, or anything that bleeds or doesn't heal. Tell the doctor about any tanning bed use or use of products like melanotan, since this is relevant to your risk.