Moles


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What are Moles?

Moles are common skin growths that appear as small, dark brown spots, and are caused when cells in the skin called melanocytes grow in clumps. While they usually appear in childhood and adolescence, they can appear at any age, and on any area of the body. While most moles are harmless, they can become cancerous in some instances. That is why it is so important to regularly monitor your moles and other pigmented areas of skin.

While most moles are brown circles, they can also appear in different shapes, sizes, and colors.

  • Shape: Most moles appear as either round or oval-shaped.
  • Size: Moles are commonly less than ¼ inch in diameter. However, some moles that are present at birth can be much larger, covering large areas of the face, torso, or a limb.
  • Color: Moles can appear as brown, tan, black, pink, or blue.

A skin examination should be a regular part of your preventative medical care, during which your doctor will carefully examine your skin to check for suspicious-looking moles. If a mole looks atypical, a biopsy may be taken for examination under a microscope to check for cancerous cells.

Treatment Options for Moles

While most moles do not require treatment as they are not harmful, some people may wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Be sure to tell Dr. Erwin if you are experiencing any new symptoms associated with a mole, or if you have noticed any changes in the mole over time. Some of the most popular techniques to remove a mole include:

Excision: Your doctor will remove the mole using a scalpel. Local anesthetic will be injected into the mole before the procedure so the process is not painful.

Ideal Candidates for Mole Treatment

Individuals who are bothered by the look or feel of a mole are often candidates for mole removal treatment. The best way to determine candidacy is through a consultation appointment with Dr. Erwin, during which she will assess your mole to determine the best treatment option for you.

Contact Us Today

If you are interested in scheduling a skin exam to ensure your moles are healthy or are bothered by a mole and would like to learn more about removing it, contact our office by calling 979-543-9933. We will be happy to assist you in scheduling your appointment with Dr. Erwin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of moles?

There are several types of moles, including common moles, congenital moles, dysplastic nevi (atypical moles), and spitz nevi. Common moles are usually round or oval, with a smooth surface and distinct edge. Congenital moles are present at birth, while dysplastic nevi are larger and may have irregular shapes or colors.

How can I tell if a mole might be cancerous?

Use the "ABCDE" rule to identify potentially cancerous moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolving or changing over time. If you notice any of these characteristics in a mole, consult a dermatologist.

Do all moles have the same color?

No, moles can vary in color. While most are brown, they can also be tan, black, blue, pink, red, skin-toned, or even colorless. However, a single mole usually has a consistent color throughout.

Can new moles appear in adulthood?

Yes, new moles can appear throughout life, although most develop before the age of 25. These are called acquired moles. However, if you notice a new mole after age 40, it's advisable to have it checked by a dermatologist.

How many moles is it normal to have?

Most adults have between 10 to 40 moles on their bodies. Having more than 50 moles may increase the risk of melanoma, so individuals with numerous moles should monitor their skin closely and consult a dermatologist regularly.

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