A mole is a skin growth or discoloration that occurs when melanin, the substance that gives skin its pigment, grows together into a clustered form. This cluster of melanin creates the darker, often brown circle on the skin known as a mole. Moles can occur anywhere on the body, but can be more of a concern when they appear on more prominent areas such as the face. The face can have several different kinds of moles, ranging from harmless to possibly cancerous.
Congenital
When a large or small mole is present on the skin from birth on, it is classified as a congenital mole, or congenital nevus. Statistics from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) estimate that approximately one in 100 people are born with at least one congenital nevus, although not necessarily on the face. According to the AAD, a large congenital mole on your skin may increase your risk for developing melanoma later in life.
Acquired
Moles that develop after birth are called acquired moles; most moles fall under this category. These mole develop more commonly during childhood and young adulthood; moles that appear after the age of 50 should be watched carefully and evaluated by your dermatologist, states the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Acquired moles can become darker over time due to factors such as sun exposure, but irregular coloring can be an early warning sign of melanoma.
Atypical
Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, are acquired moles that have an irregular shape or a variance in color. Dysplastic nevi are also larger than other types of moles, with a diameter typically larger than a pencil eraser. These moles should always be checked out by your doctor as they are often a precursor to cancerous melanoma lesions. Approximately 5 to 10 percent of the population will develop atypical moles on their skin, states the American Academy of Family Physicians.
