Moles are often small, dark brown spots that are caused by clusters of pigmented melanin cells, and they can change in appearance, or fade over time.
Often times, the body’s production of hormones can affect moles, causing them to increase in size or darken, so it is common to see the appearance or development of moles during puberty, and at other stages when hormones are especially active, for example in women who are pregnant or experiencing menopause.
Most people have 10-40 moles, and the majority of moles are harmless, but monitoring moles as well as any other marks on the skin is important, since some can develop into skin cancer.
Moles don’t usually cause other symptoms, and often people are more affected by the way they look than by any physical symptoms, which can negatively impact self-esteem.
Moles
Most people have 10-40 moles, and the majority of moles are harmless, but monitoring moles as well as any other marks on the skin is important, since some can develop into skin cancer.
If a mole is developing in a child, and is cause for concern based on appearance, it might be better to delay decisions about treatment until after puberty, as the scarring from removal might be more visible than the mole itself.
Symptoms of Moles
Moles typically present as a brown spot, but they can present with different characteristics, for example;
- Colour – Moles can be brown, tan, black, red, pink or even blue.
- Texture – Moles might be smooth, or wrinkled; and flat or raised. They might or might not have hair that grows out of them and this hair may be pigmented differently to the rest of the hair on the body.
- Shape – Moles can be oval or round, and usually they are symmetrical in appearance.
- Size – Usually moles are smaller than the size of a pencil eraser, but moles that present at birth can be much bigger, and may also be called a birthmark.
Most moles are harmless and can be left untreated. However, some moles may develop into skin cancer, and therefore it is important to check moles regularly. Any changes should be noted and discussed with the GP or a dermatologist.
The British Association of Dermatologists (and others) recommends a simple ABCDE approach to identifying melanomas:
- Asymmetry – Melanomas will normally differ from one side to the other
- Border – Melanomas will normally have edges that are blurred and irregular
- Colour – Melanomas will normally have a number of different colours
- Diameter – Melanomas will normally be at least 6mm across
- Evolving – changes in shape, size or texture can indicate a melanoma. If your GP is concerned about your skin, make sure you are referred to a consultant dermatologist as soon as possible.
Identification of Moles
While many patients can track their own skin, it can be difficult, especially if they have a lot of moles, or have moles in hard-to-see areas, such as the back and shoulders. This can be exceptionally hard to do for patients with mobility issues.
Causes of Moles
While moles are often associated with skin cancers, the majority of moles are not a sign of cancer. They should, however, be monitored for any changes.
Treatment of Moles at Derma
The appointment will begin with an examination of the skin (also called a skin check) followed by a discussion about your medical history. If you are seeking to have your child’s moles assessed, the dermatologist may ask questions about the medical histories of the parents.
Most moles don’t need treatment, but in some cases where a mole is abnormal, it may be cause for further investigation, which might include blood tests or a biopsy. In many cases where the mole is abnormal, the safest thing to do is to remove the mole completely by excision, then send it for analysis (histopathology).
If the moles are not of concern, you then have the choice whether you want them removed by excision or cryotherapy for cosmetic reasons, or you would prefer to leave them. Whilst we can normally remove the moles at the first appointment, you can also choose to go away and consider your options, and you will never feel under pressure to have surgery if you don’t want to.
If you have many moles, it can be helpful to undergo mole mapping which will allow the dermatologist to track any changes over time. If there’s a specific mole that you’re concerned about, it would be best to book an appointment with one of our dermatologists to discuss your concerns.
Together with the dermatologist, you will be able to discuss how best to approach taking care of your moles, and if needed or desired, receive the latest and most effective treatments. The dermatologist will explain all potential side-effects, enabling you to select the best option for you, or for your child.
Whatever your needs, you can rest assured that Derma will provide the very best care with access to the latest research and treatment methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Tell if a Mole is Cancerous?
When To Get a Mole Checked?
Is It Normal For Moles To Scab?
What Happens If You Pick a Mole?
Can You Remove a Mole at Home?
Related Specialists at Derma
Dr Charles Archer
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Charles Archer is a registered specialist with the GMC and his NHS Consultant post is split between The Royal Berkshire Hospitals and Oxford University Hospitals.
Dr Sanju Arianayagam
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Sanju Arianayagam is a Consultant Dermatologist and gained her dermatology experience at Cambridge University Hospitals, Oxford University Hospitals and the Royal Berkshire Hospital.
Dr Rima Clayton
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Rima Clayton is a UK trained Consultant Dermatologist who practises in Reading and Oxford. She is fully trained in both paediatric and adult dermatology.
Dr Sabrina Khan
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Khan consults on all general dermatology conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne.
Dr Rachel Fisher
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Fisher consults on all general dermatology conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne.
Dr Inge Kreuser-Genis
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Kreuser-Genis is a UK trained Consultant Dermatologist who practices in Reading and Oxford. She is fully trained in both paediatric and adult dermatology.
Mr Andy Pay
Consultant Plastic Surgeon and Skin Cancer Surgeon
Andy is very experienced in the management of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, but also in the management of squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas and other skin and soft tissue tumours.
Dr John Reed
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr John Reed has been a UK trained consultant dermatologist and senior lecturer in Oxford since 2007