Moles are common growths that occur on the skin’s surface. They usually appear in shades of brown or black. The moles might occur on any part of the body singularly or in groups.

Development of Moles

Most people develop moles during childhood or the first 25 years of life. By the time that you reach adulthood, it is not uncommon to have 10 to 40 moles.

Changes in a Mole

As you age, moles often change. They may change color or become raised. In some cases, small hairs even sprout in the middle of the mole. However, many moles never change throughout your lifetime. On rare occasions, the moles may even start to disappear.

Mole Formation

A mole occurs when the cells of your skin start to grow and form a cluster on the skin’s surface. The skin’s pigment gives the mole its color. Sun exposure and pregnancy can also cause the mole to darken.

Moles that Often Turn Cancerous

Most moles are harmless, but there are a couple of types that you should watch carefully during your lifetime:

Congenital Nevi: Moles referred to as ‘congenital nevi’ occur at birth. Such moles have a higher chance of turning cancerous and should be monitored for any changes.

Dysplastic Nevi: Dysplastic nevi is a form of mole that also has a reputation for turning cancerous. They are larger than a pencil eraser and feature uneven coloration. The mole’s margin is also not clearly defined.

Any time you are concerned about a mole, you should have it checked out by a dermatologist. Contact our office today!