When To Be Concerned About A Mole

Written By Kara Masterson / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

Genetics plays a huge role in determining what you look like. From your hair to your skin, genetics plays a big part in determining what your features will be and what your body is in store for as time goes on. This includes the development of beauty marks and blemishes, such as moles.

You never really know whether or not you’re going to develop a mole, but genetics definitely plays a role here. However, being exposed to the sun and using tanning beds can also cause new moles or make the moles you already have darker. Moles change during pregnancy and puberty as well.

All of these have a high potential for being harmless, however, sometimes moles are an indicator of a much bigger and more serious problem. Namely, skin cancer. Below are some signs to watch out for when it comes to moles.

Different Mole Types

Moles are small spots of pigment on the skin. They can have different sizes, colors, and shapes. Moles might be flat or raised. Moles are usually broken into the following three categories.

Congenital moles. These are the moles that you have had since birth. Congenital moles larger than 20 millimeters are the only ones with a significant risk of becoming cancer.

Acquired moles. These are moles that you get after birth. They are usually the size of a pencil eraser or smaller. The majority of acquired moles do not develop into cancer.

Atypical moles. These have uneven pigment with a focal darker area. This can be a genetic condition that runs in the family. If you have a lot of atypical moles, you have a higher chance of skin cancer.

When to Visit Your Doctor about Your Mole

If you have suspicious moles, visit a doctor. They could indicate life-threatening cancer. Look at your skin every couple of months to see if your moles have changed. If skin cancer runs in your family, you should visit your dermatologist regularly to get skin checks.

Follow the ABCDEs of melanoma. If you notice changes to any of the following, get help.

• Asymmetry
• Border
• Color
• Diameter
• Evolution

Pay close attention to new moles that develop, especially if they pop up after you are 30 years of age. If a mole bleeds, it is painful or itches, this could indicate an issue that needs to be addressed.

Getting a Mole Removed

The majority of moles are harmless. However, your dermatologist may recommend mole removal in some instances just to be on the safe side. When the time comes to take care of the mole, the doctor or an assistant will numb the area and then shave or cut it off.

You may need a couple of stitches. The removed tissue is sent to a lab to confirm whether or not it’s cancerous.

If you have moles, do not take it for granted that they are nothing. Pay close attention to their size, shape, color, and any changes they experience. Skin cancer can be life-threatening. However, the earlier skin cancer is detected, the easier it is for it to be treated.

Be vigilant when it comes to your skin. Any abnormalities in your moles should be reported to your dermatologist immediately.

Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral health and skincare. If you are looking for more health resources check out the Trusted Health Resources list.  

Written By:

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She enjoys tennis and spending time with her family.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.