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Alex Cao/Photodisc/Getty ImagesSkin moles have been depicted as unsightly flaws on antagonists and witches, yet they have also been celebrated as elegant features on famous celebrities and top models.
Moles are extremely common, with almost everyone having a few. They are particularly frequent in individuals with lighter skin tones and are typically benign growths caused by an accumulation of natural skin pigment. Usually, moles follow a natural life cycle without causing issues, simply becoming a regular aspect of one's skin.
Although most skin moles are harmless, they can sometimes serve as a critical indicator of skin cancer. Understanding the various types of skin moles is essential for assessing potential risks. Certain signs may suggest the presence of an atypical mole, warranting a medical evaluation. While the link between moles and cancer will be discussed later, for most individuals, moles are simply a normal part of life.
This article delves into the different types of skin moles, their origins, and potential cosmetic and medical treatments. Continue reading to discover more about mole varieties and key signs to monitor during skin examinations.
Types of Skin Moles
Skin moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can develop anywhere on the body. Most individuals have moles, with many possessing between 10 and 40 by adulthood [source: WebMD]. Typically brown or black, moles vary in shape and size. Each mole follows a unique growth pattern, meaning its appearance may evolve over time. Changes in a mole's look are not inherently alarming.
Typically, a mole starts as a flat, tan mark resembling a freckle. Over time, it may become raised, change color, or even vanish. These transformations are part of a mole's natural life cycle, which can span up to 50 years [source: American Academy of Dermatology].
Two specific types of moles, congenital nevi and dysplastic nevi, are more prone to causing issues later in life. Congenital nevi are moles present at birth, occurring in approximately one out of every 100 individuals [source: WebMD]. These moles carry a higher risk of developing melanoma compared to those that appear after birth, making it crucial to monitor them for any significant changes.
Dysplastic nevi, also known as atypical moles, are larger than average and feature irregular shapes. They exhibit uneven coloring, often with dark brown centers and lighter, uneven edges. These moles may also display reddish borders or small black dots around their periphery. Individuals with dysplastic nevi frequently have over 100 moles, and these moles often run in families, increasing the risk of melanoma [source: American Academy of Dermatology].
Recognizing the various types of moles is crucial for effective self-examination, enabling individuals to spot potentially problematic moles early.
What exactly causes moles to form?
Moles evolve over time, often darkening due to sun exposure, during adolescence, and, for women, during pregnancy [source: American Academy of Dermatology].
Causes of Skin Moles
Moles are common skin growths that arise from a natural skin process. Melanin, the pigment responsible for coloring the skin, hair, and eyes, is produced by cells called melanocytes in the skin's upper layers. These cells are typically evenly distributed, giving the skin its uniform tone. Sun exposure triggers melanocytes to produce more melanin, resulting in a tan [source: National Cancer Institute]. Moles form when melanocytes cluster instead of spreading evenly [source: Mayo Clinic].
Moles can develop anywhere on the body but are more common in sun-exposed areas like the hands, arms, chest, neck, and face [source: Cleveland Clinic]. Most moles appear within the first 20 years of life, though some may develop later. Genetics are believed to play a role, especially in the formation of dysplastic moles.
Most moles are harmless and shouldn't cause concern. However, as they change over time, they may sometimes pose issues. Continue reading to learn more.
A recent study revealed that women with more moles tend to have younger skin cells. Researchers compared mole counts to the length of telomeres, the DNA segments at chromosome ends that shorten with age. Women with more moles had longer telomeres, indicating younger skin cells. The study found a six- to seven-year difference in cellular aging between women with the most and fewest moles. While the clinical significance remains unclear, this discovery marks a notable advancement in skin aging research [source: Bakalar].
Skin Moles and Cancer
Melanoma develops when melanocytes, the cells responsible for moles, start dividing uncontrollably and unpredictably. These abnormal cells invade and destroy surrounding tissue, leading to malignant growths on the skin's surface. Melanoma can originate from an existing mole or emerge as a new growth [source: National Cancer Institute].
Although most moles are harmless, they can increase the risk of melanoma. Individuals with numerous ordinary moles (over 50) or dysplastic nevi are at higher risk. Additional risk factors include a family history of melanoma, UV radiation exposure, a history of severe sunburns, freckles, and fair skin [source: National Cancer Institute].
Medical professionals recommend the ABCDE rule for those concerned about melanoma. This guideline suggests consulting a dermatologist if a mole exhibits any of the following characteristics:
- A stands for "asymmetry," indicating a mole that is not uniform on both sides
- B stands for "border," referring to a mole with irregular or uneven edges
- C stands for "color," describing moles that change in shade, darken, lighten, or display multiple colors
- D stands for "diameter," highlighting moles larger than .25 inches (.64 cm), roughly the size of a pencil eraser
- E stands for "elevation," indicating moles that are raised above the skin and have a rough texture
[source: American Academy of Family Physicians]
Beyond the ABCDE symptoms, any pearly, translucent growth or mole that starts to grow, bleed, or itch should prompt a visit to a dermatologist [source: American Academy of Dermatology].
Early detection of melanoma is crucial, as it can often be treated successfully with minor surgery [source: National Cancer Institute]. Therefore, individuals should remain vigilant for any unusual changes in their moles.
Continue reading to explore the methods and details of mole removal.
Several skin conditions can mimic moles. Freckles are the most common pigmentation aside from moles, typically small and flat. In middle age, brown, wartlike growths called seborrheic keratoses may appear. Actinic lentigines, often referred to as "liver spots" or "age spots," are common in older individuals. All these pigmented spots are benign [source: American Academy of Dermatologists].
Skin Mole Removal
A doctor might suggest removing an atypical mole for health reasons, or you may opt for removal for cosmetic purposes. In either case, mole removal is a low-risk procedure. Depending on the mole type, the surgery may leave minor scarring, but your doctor can provide a clearer expectation based on the removal method used.
The two most common mole removal techniques are excision with stitches and excision with cauterization [source: eMedicine]. The first method involves cutting out the mole and stitching the wound closed. The second method uses a tool to burn off the mole while sealing the wound. Both are outpatient procedures performed under anesthesia, ensuring minimal pain.
Laser treatment has also been used for mole removal, but it is less effective for moles with deeper roots, as it doesn't penetrate as deeply as other methods [source: eMedicine].
Dermatologists may recommend surgical excision for various reasons. If a mole becomes irritating or shows signs of melanoma, removal can prevent potential cancer. Additionally, individuals may choose removal for cosmetic purposes, to enhance skin appearance or address moles that have grown larger over time, even if they are not medically concerning [source: American Academy of Dermatology].
Those worried about mole growth, whether for health or aesthetic reasons, should seek advice from a dermatologist to decide on removal and identify the most suitable removal technique.
