The cause of melanoma is not clear, however, there are many contributing factors. UV radiation from sunlight or tanning beds can increase your risk. Other risk factors include having fair skin, many moles, a family history of melanoma, or a history of sunburns.
The first symptoms of melanoma are a change in an existing mole or the development of a new pigmented or unusual-looking growth on your skin. There are three main types of melanoma: superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, and lentigo melanoma.