1. Most People Have More Than One
Most people have several moles on their body. They can even grow on the scalp. Moles are formed when skin cells called melanocytes grow together in a group. Variations in mole size, shape and color are normal. Most moles are usually brown, black or reddish. Moles may show up at anytime in a person's life. Most people have some moles as teenagers. Hormonal changes with pregnancy are thought to cause some women to develop moles.
2. Keep an Eye on the Mole
It's a good idea to check yourself periodically to determine if you have a sudden increase in moles of if they are changing. Be sure to look everywhere including your back. If you cut a mole while shaving, be sure to clean it thoroughly to prevent an infection from developing. If a mole is oozing, bleeding or painful you should see a doctor.
3. Understand the ABC's of Cancerous Changes
Moles are usually harmless however there may be times a mole needs to be seen by a dermatologist. A mole that changes in size and shape may be an indication it is a skin cancer. Watch for an asymmetrical shape, a border that is irregular and a color change. Keep in mind a mole that grows to larger than six millimeters may be a sign it is cancerous. If you have any of the above changes you may need a biopsy to rule out skin cancer.
4. Can You Prevent Cancerous Changes In Moles?
It appears the sun can cause some cancerous changes in moles. There are ways to protect yourself and prevent skin mole changes. Use a sun screen of at least an SPF of 15 and apply it to all areas that will get exposed to the sun about thirty minutes before going outside. Reapply it every couple of hours. Avoid being out in the sun during times when it is the strongest, usually between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
5. You Can Get it Removed
Unless a mole needs to be biopsied there is not a medical reason to have it removed. However if it is large and you want it get rid of it for cosmetic reasons removal is possible. Depending on the size of the mole it may be possible to have a shaved excision. A blade is used to shave underneath the mole and remove it. The procedure is done with a local anesthesia to numb the area. It is usually painless and can be done in the doctor's office.
