Other changes to the skin, such as rashes, dimples or redness, are often cited as common signs of the condition.
Bleeding, ulceration and unusually itchy skin also warrant urgent medical attention.
Although these signs will appear anywhere on the body, the most commonly appear on the back in men and on the legs in women.
Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK, accounting for 16,200 new cancer cases and 2,300 deaths.
