Skin moles are usually seen as beauty marks in our society. Whether you have one on your cheek or just above the upper lip, moles enhance beauty and seem attractive. However, these moles can be a source of self-consciousness for some.
Regardless of your perspective, you should know the types of moles, what causes them, and how to deal with them.
In this article, we will discuss who gets moles, the different types, their causes, and various treatment options for those who wish to remove them.
Table of Contents
What are Skin Moles?
Skin moles, scientifically known as nevi, are clusters of pigmented cells that appear as small, dark spots on the skin. They can vary in size, shape, and color, with most being round, oval, and brownish.
Moles can develop anywhere on the body. The appearance can be bumpy or flat, smooth or rough to the touch.
These moles are typically harmless and often considered a normal part of human skin. They can be present at birth or develop over time.
What are the Different Types of Skin Moles?
Not all skin moles are equal. We can categorize them into various types based on their characteristics.
Here are some of the common types of skin moles:
Congenital Moles
These are moles that you are born with. They usually vary in size and can be located anywhere on the body.
While most congenital moles are harmless, larger ones might have a slightly increased risk of developing skin cancer.
Acquired Moles
Acquired moles, known as common moles, develop throughout a person’s life. They typically start to appear in childhood and may continue until 40. These moles are usually harmless and can range from tan to dark brown.
Most people have between 10 to 40 acquired moles.
Atypical Moles
Atypical moles are large, irregularly shaped moles that can be different shades of brown. They are atypical due to their appearance and are typically hereditary.
People with numerous atypical moles are at a higher risk of developing melanoma, a potentially dangerous form of skin cancer.
Halo Moles
Halo moles have a white ring or halo surrounding the mole. This phenomenon is often linked to the body’s immune response attacking the pigmented cells in the mole.
They are typically harmless but monitoring is crucial for any changes.
Suggested Read: Birthmark Types: Moles, Macular Stains and More
What Causes Skin Moles?
Moles are primarily the result of a combination of genetic factors and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
Here’s a breakdown of these factors:
Genetics
If your parents or other close family members have many moles, you may be genetically predisposed to developing them as well.
UV Exposure
Sun exposure is a contributor to the development of moles. UV radiation can cause changes in the skin’s pigmentation and structure, leading to the formation of moles.
Who Gets Skin Moles?
Here’s a closer look at who is more likely to develop skin moles:
Genetics
Family history plays a significant role in determining whether you might develop skin moles.
If your parents or close relatives have many moles, you are more likely to have them. Genetic predisposition can influence the number, size, and type of moles a person develops.
Fair Skin Types
Individuals with fair or light skin are more susceptible to developing moles because they have less natural protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
The lack of melanin in fair skin makes it more vulnerable to pigmentation changes.
Sun Exposure
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a common factor in skin moles development.
Overexposure to the sun can lead to the formation of new moles and changes in existing ones.
People living in sunnier climates or those who spend a lot of time outdoors are at a higher risk.
Age
Moles can develop at any age but are most likely to appear in childhood and early adulthood.
The number of moles tends to increase until the age of 40. However, some individuals may continue to develop moles throughout their lives.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy, can lead to the appearance of new moles or changes in existing ones. It is often referred to as “pregnancy moles.”
Hormonal changes during puberty and menopause can also affect mole development.
How to Deal with Skin Moles?
Dealing with skin moles depends on various factors, including the type of mole, its size, location, and your personal preference. Here are some steps you can take to manage your moles:
Skin Self-Examinations
Regularly inspect your skin, ideally once a month, to keep an eye on your moles.
Check for any changes in size, shape, color, or texture, as these could be signs of a potential issue. If you notice any suspicious changes, consult a dermatologist.
Sun Protection
Protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure can help prevent the development of new moles.
Use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours.
Professional Evaluation
If you have concerns about a specific mole or experience changes in its appearance, consult a dermatologist.
They can examine the mole and determine whether it should be monitored, removed, or further evaluated.
Looking for the best dermatologists in Islamabad? Look no further than Dr. Shumaila Khan. She’s the best in her field, having experience spanning over fifteen years. You can consult her for all your mole-related queries.
What are the Options for Skin Moles Removal Treatment?
If you decide to have a mole removed, there are several methods to consider. The choice of removal method depends on the mole’s type, size, location, and your dermatologist’s recommendation.
Here are some mole removal techniques:
Excision
In this method, the mole is cut out using a scalpel. The dermatologist numbs the area with local anesthesia before making the incision.
The doctor can add the stitches after removal, and send the excised mole to a lab for analysis to rule out any potential cancer.
Shave Excision
For smaller moles that are raised above the skin’s surface, shave excision may be appropriate.
The dermatologist shaves off the mole using a scalpel, leaving minimal scarring. This method is typically used for non-cancerous moles.
Laser Removal
Laser therapy is used for flat or slightly raised moles.
The laser light breaks down the mole’s pigmentation, causing it to fade away over time. This method is minimally invasive but may require multiple sessions.
Cryotherapy
It involves freezing the mole with liquid nitrogen. The frozen tissue eventually falls off, leaving a small scar. This method is suitable for non-cancerous moles.
Electrosurgery
In this procedure, a tool uses an electrical current to cut off the mole and cauterize the area, preventing bleeding.
Biopsy
If there are concerns about the mole being cancerous, a biopsy may be performed before deciding on the removal method.
A biopsy involves taking a sample of the mole for laboratory testing. You can book a biopsy test via Healthwire.
Consult the Best Dermatologists in Pakistan Via Healthwire!
Whether you choose to keep your moles as unique beauty marks or decide to remove them, the most important thing is to prioritize the health of your skin.
If you have concerns about a mole, consult the best dermatologist in Lahore for professional evaluation and recommendations for removal, if necessary.
