Moles are variations in the color of the skin. Often times referred to as nevi, moles can change quickly in their size and shape. If you have one on your face, it may make you feel self conscious and you may opt for removal. In some cases, moles on the face can be an indication of pre-cancer or a cancerous mole, especially if you have a history of sun exposure.
Locations
Moles that are exposed the most to the sun are more likely to change shape and size as you age. If your skin is over-exposed to sun, nevi can also develop over time. Common locations for moles to appear on the face include the nose, forehead and cheeks. These are areas that you should take special caution with sun exposure and wear lotion with SPF to protect your skin.
Types
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, moles are quite common, but they can be differentiated by three different types; atypical, acquired and congenital. Any of these moles can appear on the face or anywhere on the body. An atypical is a type of mole that grows to be larger than average and can often be identified as having an irregular shape or border. Its unevenness in color and sometimes texture can be a warning sign of pre-cancerous melanoma or melanoma. An acquired mole becomes apparent after birth and generally does not develop into any type of skin cancer. Congenital moles you are born with and will likely not turn into skin cancer unless they are larger than 20 centimeters. At that point they should be examined by a dermatologist to rule out cancer.
Skin Cancer
Something everyone fears is developing skin cancer. There are several different types of skin cancer but the most common include squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. Squamous cell cancers commonly occur on the face, where there has been sun exposure. They occur in two out of every 10 skin cancer diagnoses, according to The American Cancer Society. They can be invasive and spread into the surrounding tissue and lymph nodes. Basal cell is a slow growing skin cancer that forms on the basal cell layer of the skin. Both cancers can occur within a mole or by themselves anywhere on the skin. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and can be identified by a mole that has an irregular shape and pigment. Melanoma is treatable if detected early.
Prevention
You can't always prevent a mole from changing or growing on your face but staying out of the sun and avoiding UV rays from tanning beds can help eliminate your risk. In addition to SPF protection, you can avoid the sun to prevent getting a sunburn or being exposed. Many moles change as we age so it is important to have an annual skin cancer exam to detect any skin cancers or changes in your moles early on.
Removal
In some cases, mole removal is necessary. Moles should always be examined by a dermatologist and removed in a medical setting. The mole can be shaved off if it rises above the skin. An excision may be necessary for moles that extend deep into the skin, explains Dermnet NZ. The mole and surrounding skin tissue may be sent to the lab for a full pathology report to rule out cancer.
