Snag a derm appointment fast if you spot a suspicious mark, you need to be seen by an MD as soon as possible not weeks later, when it could be more serious.

Try a dermatologist you’ve gone to before. New patients need more time for an initial appointment and are more difficult to fit in at a moment’s notice.

When you first speak to the receptionist, use phrases like “Im really worried. I think it might be urgent.” She’s more likely to make you a priority if you sound truly concerned.

Describe the mark in the detail, and be specific. Don’t just say it looks weird; tell her that it’s bleeding or is multicolored. These are signs that it could be lethal.