What is a Mole? Understanding Moles on the Skin in Detail

Moles, also known as nevi, are one of the most common skin growths found on the human body. While most are harmless, they can sometimes signal underlying health concerns, particularly skin cancer. Understanding the types, causes, diagnosis, and treatments of moles is essential for maintaining healthy skin.

What is a Mole?

A mole is a cluster of pigmented cells called melanocytes that appear on the skin as brown, black, tan, or flesh-colored spots. These cells are responsible for producing melanin, the natural pigment that gives our skin its color. Moles can be flat or raised, small or large, and may change over time.

Most people have 10 to 40 moles throughout their lifetime, often appearing during childhood and adolescence. While many moles remain unchanged, some may fade, darken, or transform as a person ages.

Causes of Moles

Moles typically develop due to genetic factors and sun exposure. The following are the most common causes:

• Genetics: Family history plays a significant role in how many moles a person may develop.

• UV Radiation: Prolonged sun exposure can increase the number of moles and their risk of becoming cancerous.

• Hormonal Changes: Puberty and pregnancy often cause existing moles to change in appearance.

• Skin Type: Fair-skinned individuals with less melanin are more prone to developing multiple moles.

Different Types of Moles

Not all moles are the same. Identifying the type is essential for accurate monitoring and treatment.

1. Common Moles (Acquired Nevi)

These are benign moles that appear during childhood or adolescence. They are usually small, round, and uniform in color.

2. Congenital Moles

Moles present at birth are called congenital nevi. They vary in size and can increase the risk of developing melanoma, especially larger ones.

3. Atypical Moles (Dysplastic Nevi)

These are irregular in shape, with uneven borders and multiple colors. They may resemble melanoma, requiring closer medical evaluation.

4. Spitz Nevi

Often pink, raised, and dome-shaped, these moles are commonly found in children but can mimic melanoma under the microscope.

5. Blue Nevi

Caused by deep pigmentation, these moles appear blue or bluish-black and are usually harmless but should be monitored for changes.

How to Identify Dangerous Moles

While most moles are harmless, changes in their size, color, or shape can indicate skin cancer. Dermatology providers recommend the ABCDE rule for early detection:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.

• B – Border: Irregular, jagged, or blurred edges.

• C – Color: Multiple shades of brown, black, red, or white.

• D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

• E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, or symptoms like bleeding or itching.

If any mole meets these criteria, prompt evaluation by a dermatology provider such as Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC is crucial.

When to See a Dermatology Provider

It is advisable to seek care from a dermatology provider like Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC if you notice:

• A new mole appearing after the age of 30.

• Rapid changes in existing moles.

• Pain, bleeding, or itching from a mole.

• Multiple atypical moles with a family history of skin cancer.

Regular skin checks performed at home and professional dermatology screenings can help detect problems early.

Mole Removal Options

If a mole is bothersome, suspicious, or cosmetically undesirable, a dermatology provider can remove it through several safe procedures:

1. Surgical Excision

The mole is cut out entirely, along with a small margin of surrounding skin. This method ensures complete removal, particularly for suspected cancerous moles.

2. Shave Excision

A thin layer of the mole is shaved off with a surgical blade. This method is ideal for raised moles that are non-cancerous.

3. Laser Removal

Laser energy is used to break down pigment in smaller, flat moles. It is less invasive but not suitable for all mole types.

4. Cryotherapy

Freezing with liquid nitrogen may remove small, superficial moles.

Can Moles Turn into Skin Cancer?

Yes, some moles have the potential to transform into melanoma, a dangerous type of skin cancer. Although most moles remain benign, individuals with numerous or atypical moles are at higher risk. Preventive care, such as:

• Wearing sunscreen daily.

• Avoiding excessive sun exposure.

• Scheduling regular skin exams with a dermatology provider like Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC.

…are essential steps for protection.

Mole Prevention and Skin Protection

While you cannot completely prevent moles from forming, you can reduce risks by:

• Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher daily.

• Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when outdoors.

• Avoiding tanning beds, which accelerate skin damage.

• Performing monthly self-examinations to track mole changes.

Moles in Children vs. Adults

Children commonly develop moles during their first two decades of life. These moles are usually harmless. However, if a child has a large congenital mole, it should be monitored closely.

In adults, the sudden appearance of new moles is less common and may require evaluation by a dermatology provider.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moles

Do all moles need to be removed?
No. Only suspicious or bothersome moles require removal.

Can I remove a mole at home?
No. Home removal methods are unsafe and can lead to infection, scarring, or missed cancer diagnosis.

Are raised moles dangerous?
Not necessarily. Many raised moles are benign, but changes should still be evaluated.

What is the difference between a mole and a freckle?
Freckles are small, flat pigment spots caused by sun exposure, while moles are clusters of melanocytes.

Conclusion

Moles are common skin features that, while usually harmless, require careful monitoring for changes that may indicate skin cancer. By practicing sun safety, performing self-checks, and scheduling evaluations with a trusted dermatology provider such as Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC, we can ensure that moles remain a minor concern rather than a serious health risk.

Disclaimer:
The information on this website is provided for educational and information purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with a licensed medical provider and follow their recommendations regardless of what you read on this website. If you think you are having a medical emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Links to other third-party websites are provided for your convenience only. If you decide to access any of the third-party websites, you do so entirely at your own risk and subject to the terms of use for those websites. Neither My Skin by Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC, nor any contributor to this website, makes any representation, express or implied, regarding the information provided on this website or any information you may access on a third-party website using a link. Use of this website does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. If you would like to request an appointment with a health care provider, please call our office at (727) 295-7223.