What is the difference between melanoma and a blackhead?

Moles and blackheads are common skin conditions, but have distinctly different characteristics. Blackheads, or open comedones, are a form of acne. They arise in skin pores. Moles are raised or flat areas that appear different from the surrounding skin. A blackhead might resemble a tiny, dark mole and vice versa. read more

Melanoma: the deadliest skin cancer This is a malignant melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer. Melanomas - which arise from dysplastic nevi - tend to be assymetrical, with poorly defined borders and often with varied coloration. read more

Moles are skin growths or discolorations that usually appear during childhood and young adulthood. They are often round and may be flat or slightly raised. The color varies, but most are brown to black. Unlike blackheads, moles can form anywhere on the body -- even under a fingernail. read more