Moles can be found anywhere on your body. The Mayo Clinic notes that moles, or nevi, are bunches of dark colored pigmented cells that are normally small but can range in size and shape. Moles are generally harmless, but in some cases can be a form of cancer or indicate a pre-cancerous lesion. Having your moles checked by a dermatologist once a year will help detect cancer early and allow you the chance to have unsightly moles removed.
Types of Moles
There are several types of moles that can show up on your body. The American Academy of Dermatology says that while moles are common there are three different types such as acquired, congenital and atypical. Acquired moles are often referred to as moles that develop in your early 20s and throughout life. They are generally not harmful, unless there is a large cluster of them together. Congenital moles are moles you are born with, they are sometimes referred to as birthmarks. Atypical or dysplastic nevi are large moles that are irregular in appearance. They can have uneven color and tone. These types of moles are at a higher risk of developing melanoma.
Causes
The significance of having moles isn't always something you are born with, you can have a greater number of moles if your skin becomes damaged from the sun or as you age. The American Cancer Society explains that ultraviolet radiation is one of the main risk factors for developing skin cancer. You can develop small brown clusters on your skin if you are excessively exposed to ultraviolet rays. These are often referred to as age spots or sun spots and resemble freckles.
Identifications
Most people identify common moles as being a small brown spot somewhere on the skin. Moles can also appear red, pink, crusty, blue or skin colored. Anything that has an irregular border or multi colored center or edges should be examined by a dermatologist. This could be an indication of cancerous mole such as a basal cell, squamous cell or a melanoma. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology notes any type of new moles, mole that bleeds or one that is dark in color could be an indication of melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer.
Precautions
You can protect your skin by always wearing a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Sunscreen helps to block some of the rays of the sun. Sunscreen does not block all of the rays caused by the sun, so it is important not to overexpose yourself, according to the Coppertone website. Keeping your skin moisturized helps it from drying out and can also help with premature aging. Skin is the largest organ in the body and needs to be hydrated for optimal health and appearance.
Removal
Moles can be removed if they are considered to be cancerous or unsightly. Other reasons for removal include removal because of skin irritation or protruding moles that interfere with shaving advises the Cosmetic Surgery website. This should be done by a licensed medical professional such as a dermatologist. Removal is done by applying a local anesthetic to the mole and surrounding skin. A scalpel is used to removal the mole and the surrounding skin; stitches may or may not be necessary. If the mole is protruding it may be removed via scalpel or shaving and then cauterized to close the wound.
