Moles

Skin moles, also called nevi, are common. They're usually small, dark spots, about the size of a pencil eraser (less than 1/4 inch or 6 millimeters across). Moles can be various colors, including brown, tan, black, blue, red, or pink. They often have hairs in them, and sometimes they become raised or bumpy.

Most moles are completely harmless. They're made of clusters of cells called melanocytes that produce pigment, giving the mole its color. Many people have 10 to 45 moles, which usually develop during childhood and adolescence. The appearance of these moles can change over time, sometimes becoming lighter or fading.

While most moles are not cancerous, it's important to watch for any changes. A mole that changes in size, shape, color, or starts to itch, hurt, bleed, or become inflamed should be checked by a doctor. These changes could be a sign of something more serious. Even though rare, some moles can turn into skin cancer, particularly a dangerous type called melanoma. Regularly checking your moles and other pigmented spots on your skin is key to early detection of skin cancer.

Moles are common spots on the skin. They come in various colors, like brown, tan, black, blue, red, or pink. Their shapes can be oval, round, or even bumpy. Their sizes usually range from very small, about the size of a pencil eraser (less than 1/4 inch or 6 millimeters), to larger ones that might cover parts of the body. Some moles are present at birth, and these can be quite large.

Moles can appear anywhere on your body, from your scalp to your armpits, even under your nails or between your fingers and toes. Most people have between 10 and 45 moles. Many people develop most of their moles by the time they are 40 years old. Over time, some moles might change in appearance or even disappear. Hormonal changes, like those during puberty or pregnancy, can sometimes make moles darker or larger.

Sometimes you might see clusters of brown spots around your eyes, cheeks, or nose. These are called dermatoses papulosa nigra. They are a type of harmless skin growth that looks like waxy, brown, black, or tan patches. They aren't the same as ordinary moles, and they don't increase the risk of skin cancer. However, if they bother you, your doctor can help with any cosmetic concerns.

A mole might be a sign of skin cancer if it shows certain changes. It's important to know what to look for. A helpful guide uses the letters ABCDE:

• A is for Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't look like the other half.

• B is for Border: Look for uneven, notched, or scalloped edges.

• C is for Color: Notice if the mole has changed color, has multiple colors, or uneven coloring.

• D is for Diameter: Watch for new growth in a mole that's larger than about a pencil eraser (1/4 inch or 6 millimeters).

• E is for Evolving: Pay attention if the mole changes in size, shape, color, or height. Also, look for new symptoms like itching or bleeding.

Skin cancers, also called malignant moles, can look different. Some might have all the ABCDE changes. Others might only show one or two unusual traits.

If you notice any changes to a mole, or if it looks unusual, it's best to see your doctor right away. Early detection is very important.

If you notice a mole that looks different, is getting bigger, or is changing in any way, schedule a visit with your doctor.

Skin color comes from a natural substance called melanin. This melanin is made by special cells in your skin called melanocytes. These melanocytes are spread out throughout your skin.

Moles happen when groups of these melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, grow together in one area. Essentially, a mole is a collection of melanocytes clumped close to each other in the skin.

Moles can sometimes become cancerous, a serious condition called melanoma. Some people are more likely to develop melanoma from moles than others. Here are some factors that increase this risk:

• Large moles from birth: Some people are born with moles that are significantly larger than average. These are called congenital nevi. Doctors often categorize these based on their expected size when the person grows up. Very large moles, over 8 inches (20 centimeters) across, have a higher chance of becoming cancerous. This is because they have more skin cells that are potentially at risk.

• Unusual-looking moles: Atypical moles, sometimes called dysplastic nevi, are moles that look unusual. They might be large, with irregular edges or uneven coloring. These moles often run in families, meaning a person's risk is higher if other family members have them.

• Many moles: Having a large number of moles (more than 50) can increase the risk of melanoma, and possibly other cancers like breast cancer.

• Past or family melanoma history: If someone has had melanoma before, they are more likely to get it again. Also, some unusual moles are linked to a genetic predisposition to melanoma, meaning the risk is higher for certain family members.

• Using tanning beds or lamps: Tanning beds and lamps emit ultraviolet (UV) rays. Exposure to these rays can increase a person's risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. It's important to note that even occasional use can increase risk.

Knowing about moles and how to protect yourself from skin cancer is important. Moles can sometimes become a serious problem, like melanoma. Here's how you can help prevent problems and spot potential issues early:

Regular Skin Checks: Get to know your moles. Look at your skin regularly for any changes. Do a complete self-skin exam once a month. Use mirrors to check every part of your body, including:

• Your scalp
• The palms of your hands and fingernails
• Your armpits
• Your chest
• Your legs
• Your feet (including the soles and spaces between the toes)
• Your genitals and the area between your buttocks

Talk to Your Doctor: Discuss your risk factors for skin cancer with your doctor. Ask if you need regular professional skin checks.

Protecting Yourself from the Sun: The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are a major risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma. Sun exposure also seems to play a role in how many moles a person develops, especially in children. Here's how to protect yourself:

• Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Try to limit outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun's rays are strongest. Even on cloudy days, the sun's rays can be damaging. Seek shade or use an umbrella when outside.

• Use Sunscreen Daily: Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin 15 minutes before going outside, even on cloudy days. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you swim or sweat.

• Wear Protective Clothing: Use sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and other protective clothing to shield yourself from UV rays. Look for clothing that's specially treated to block UV rays.

• Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds and lamps emit harmful UV rays that significantly increase your risk of skin cancer.

By following these steps, you can help reduce your risk of melanoma and other skin problems. Early detection is key, so regular self-exams and open communication with your doctor are essential.

Doctors can check for moles by looking at your skin. They examine your entire body, from your head to your toes. If a doctor sees a mole that might be a problem, they can remove it. This removed mole is then sent to a lab to be looked at closely under a powerful microscope. This process is called a biopsy.

You might want to have regular skin checks as part of your overall health care. Talk to your doctor about how often you should get checked.