Moles, medically known as nevi (singular: nevus), are common skin growths that appear when melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment, cluster together. These clusters become visible as small, often dark, marks on the skin, though they can also be skin-colored and slightly raised. Moles are a very typical skin feature, and most people will develop them throughout their lives.
Moles present themselves in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. A blue nevus, for instance, is a type of mole that appears blue. This bluish hue is due to the pigment-producing cells being located deeper within the skin compared to regular brown moles or freckles. While they might look different, blue nevi are generally harmless.
It’s quite unusual to be born with moles. In fact, only about 1% of people are born with moles, known as congenital melanocytic nevi. These birthmarks are often larger than acquired moles, which are moles that develop after birth. Moles typically start appearing during childhood and adolescence. By the age of 15, children in sun-exposed countries can average over 50 moles.
Mole vs. Freckle: Spotting the Difference
While both moles and freckles are related to skin pigmentation, they are distinct. Moles are usually raised above the skin’s surface, giving them a bump-like feel. Freckles, on the other hand, are flat spots on the skin. Both get their color from melanin produced by melanocytes, and freckles often darken with sun exposure. However, moles form when melanocytes group together, whereas freckles are simply areas with increased melanin production in the normal melanocyte distribution. Freckles do not evolve into moles.
Understanding Cancerous Moles
The vast majority of moles are benign and pose no health risk. However, some moles can, in rare instances, develop into melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Excessive sun exposure, particularly during childhood, is a significant factor that can increase the number of moles a person develops and consequently elevate the risk of melanoma, especially in individuals with many moles.
Dysplastic nevi, or atypical moles, are irregular moles that indicate a higher-than-average risk of developing melanoma. This risk increases with the number of atypical moles a person has. Therefore, regular skin self-exams and awareness of your moles are crucial for early detection.
Recognizing Other Skin Spots
It’s important to remember that not every skin spot is a cancerous mole. Sunspots, also known as solar keratoses or actinic keratoses, are another type of skin spot that is common, particularly in people over 40. Sunspots typically appear on sun-exposed areas like the hands, forearms, legs, neck, and head. They are a sign of sun damage and indicate an increased risk of skin cancer in general.
How to Check Your Skin for Moles
Regular skin self-exams are vital for spotting changes that could indicate skin cancer. To check your skin effectively:
- Find a well-lit room and undress completely.
- Use a full-length mirror to examine your entire body.
- For hard-to-see areas, use a handheld mirror or ask a partner or friend for assistance.
When checking your skin, be aware of the following signs that warrant medical attention:
- Any mole or spot that is changing in size, shape, texture, or color.
- New moles or spots that look different from your existing moles (“ugly duckling” sign).
- A sore that itches, bleeds, or crusts.
- A sore that does not heal within a few weeks.
- The development of a crusty or flaky surface on a mole.
Remember, typical moles tend to look similar to each other. If you notice a new spot or a mole that is changing, it’s essential to consult a doctor for an examination. It can be challenging to distinguish between a harmless mole, sun damage, and early skin cancer. When in doubt, always seek professional medical advice from your general practitioner or a dermatologist.
Where to Find More Information
For further information and support regarding moles and skin health, you can contact reputable organizations like the Cancer Council in your region. They often provide resources, booklets, and helplines to assist you. Reliable online health resources, such as government health websites and trusted medical information portals, are also excellent sources of information.
Sources:
- Understanding Skin Cancer, Cancer Council Australia © 2020.
- Understanding Melanoma, Cancer Council Australia © 2021.
- Health Direct
