Finding new moles can be startling, but in most cases they are simply caused by sun exposure. Moles are caused by changes in the cells that produce the pigments in your skin. They are not caused by anything you might eat or drink, or by anything that you might apply topically to your skin. If you have been taking or using evening primrose oil and have noticed an increase in the number of moles you have, rest assured that it is just a coincidence.
Mole Facts
Moles are small marks on your skin, usually larger and darker than freckles, though they can also be yellow or the same color as your skin. They are usually thought of as being raised, though some are flat. Moles that are larger than one-half inch in diameter are called atypical moles and are usually shaped irregularly. Moles sometimes change size, shape and/or color in response to hormonal changes in your body. There are several types of moles, most of which are benign and require no treatment.
Evening Primrose Facts
Primrose is a small flower that resembles poppies more than roses. It is native to the United States, and was used as a traditional medicine – both internally and externally – by Native Americans. Evening Primrose seeds contain gamma-linolenic acid, which is an essential fatty acid used by your body to stimulate brain function. GLA also helps to fight inflammation and supports the growth of your hair and skin. There is no evidence that evening primrose oil stimulates the production of moles.
Benefits
Native Americans used poultices made from evening primrose plants to heal bruises. Preliminary studies suggest that evening primrose oil might help ease the itching and inflammation of eczema, though it has no effect on moles one way or the other.
Warning
Most moles are just benign clusters of pigmented cells, but not all of them are. If you have a mole that is asymmetrical, has an irregular border, is different colors on its surface, larger than a pencil eraser or changing shape, color or size you should get it checked out by a your physician immediately. This is called the ABCDE method – Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving – and it applies to all moles; no matter what you think might have caused them.
