Moles
What is a mole?
A mole is a brown or skin-colored bump on the skin. Moles appear in childhood or adolescence. Most adults have an average of between 10 and 40 moles on the skin. Some individuals are more prone to moles than others. Moles can appear in all areas of the body during any age. Over time, moles can slightly change or even disappear; however, this is uncommon.
What causes a mole?
Moles emerge when cells called melanocytes grow in a large group. Melanocytes give the skin pigment and are traditionally spread around the skin; moles appear when they grow in a cluster. Genetics and sun exposure can both influence how and when these clusters form. Atypical moles can cause concern and need evaluation under certain conditions where you may suspect skin cancer.
types of Skin moles?
Congenital Nevi (Birthmarks)
Congenital nevi are moles, also known as birthmarks, appearing when you are born. Although these are common and seem large and abnormal, most moles from birth are not harmful.
Atypical Nevi (Atypical Moles)
Atypical or dysplastic nevi are another form of mole that contains atypical cells. Congenital nevi moles are considered precancerous. If these moles are not addressed, they may indicate that you are developing melanoma. These moles are rated mild, moderate, and severe. Mild forms of this mole need to be regularly monitored by a doctor, whereas severe-level moles must be entirely removed.
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Is there something that you should look for when examining your moles?
Most moles that you notice on your body are not harmful to you. You should be on the lookout for moles that look different from others and appear later in life, past the age of thirty. Moles can darken with sun exposure and when you are experiencing hormonal changes. Changes in moles should be tested or evaluated by a healthcare professional. Changes to look out for include growth, color changes, pain, itchiness, scaling, and bleeding.
While you examine the moles on your skin, it is vital to look at skin areas exposed to the sun. These areas include the hands, arms, chest, neck, ears, and face.
Signs of Melanoma
Knowing what to look out for when detecting abnormal moles is essential. At Clear Dermatology & Aesthetics Center we use the ABCDE method to help you indicate worrisome signs of melanoma. ABCDE signs can help you detect potential melanoma.
A - Asymmetry
If you look at a mole that does not appear symmetrical on both sides, this can be a tell-tale sign of melanoma.
B - Border
The borders of an early melanoma can appear abnormal. They may look like they have scallops or notches around them.
C - Color
Multiple colors appearing within a mole can be a sign of melanoma. Colors include brown, tan, black, red, white, and even blue.
D - Diameter
The size of melanoma can change rather quickly. They may be small when they are first noticed and can grow large in diameter. A doctor should evaluate moles with changing sizes.
E - Evolving
Any signs of evolution in a mole can indicate signs of melanoma. Moles traditionally stay uniform in size, shape, and color. New symptoms can be detrimental, including bleeding, elevation, itching, and crusting.
before your mole removal procedure
Before your mole removal procedure, your provider will carefully evaluate the mole to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. This includes examining its size, color, shape, and location, as well as reviewing any recent changes you may have noticed. You may be asked about your medical history, sun exposure, and family history of skin conditions. In most cases, no special preparation is required, but your provider will give you personalized instructions if any adjustments to medications or skincare routines are needed beforehand.
Your Mole Removal Procedure
During your mole removal procedure, the area will be cleansed and numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort. Depending on the type of mole and its characteristics, your provider may remove it using a surgical excision or a shave technique. The procedure is typically quick and performed in-office. If needed, the removed tissue may be sent to a laboratory for further evaluation. Most patients tolerate the procedure well and are able to return to normal activities shortly afterward.
After Your Mole Removal Procedure
After the procedure, you may experience mild redness, tenderness, or swelling at the treatment site, which is normal and temporary. Your provider will give you detailed aftercare instructions to help protect the area as it heals, including keeping the site clean and avoiding unnecessary sun exposure. In some cases, a small bandage may be applied. Proper aftercare helps minimize scarring and supports optimal healing.
What to Expect After Mole Removal
Healing time after surgical removal varies depending on the size and depth of the mole, but many moles heal within one to two weeks. As the skin heals, a small scab may form and naturally fall off on its own. It is important to avoid picking at the area to reduce the risk of scarring. Over time, the treated area typically blends in more closely with the surrounding skin, although some patients may notice a faint mark that continues to improve.
Why Choose Clear Dermatology?
Clear Dermatology provides expert evaluation and treatment of moles using a patient-focused, detail-oriented approach. Our providers are experienced in distinguishing between benign moles and lesions that may require closer attention. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual, prioritizing both skin health and cosmetic outcomes. Patients can feel confident knowing their care is guided by clinical expertise and careful assessment.
Why Choose Clear Dermatology?
If you have a mole that has changed in appearance or one that you would like evaluated or removed, Clear Dermatology is here to help. Our team is available to answer your questions, assess your skin concerns, and recommend appropriate treatment options. Scheduling a consultation is the first step toward understanding your skin and maintaining long-term skin health.
If you draw an imaginary line through your mole and the two halves do not match, this could be a warning sign for melanoma.
The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven. The edges may be scalloped, notched, or irregular.
Having a variety of colors is another warning sign for melanoma. A number of different shades of brown, tan or black could appear. A melanoma may also become red, white or blue.
Melanomas can be larger in diameter than a pencil eraser tip (6mm), but they may sometimes be smaller when first detected.
Common, benign moles look the same over time. Be on the alert when a mole starts to evolve or change in any way. If you are concerned your mole is changing, please schedule an appointment to come see us right away for a skin check. Any change in size, shape, color, elevation, or another trait, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching or crusting can point to danger and should be taken seriously.
Knowing the ABCDE warning signs of melanoma can help you detect a potential melanoma. If one of your moles has any of the ABCDE warning signs, please have it checked immediately with one of our providers.
