Understanding Moles
What Are Moles?
Moles are common skin growths that can develop anywhere on the body, appearing as brown, black, or flesh-colored spots. Most people have between 10 and 40 moles by adulthood. While the majority are benign (non-cancerous) and require no medical intervention, some may undergo abnormal changes that warrant professional evaluation.
The primary concern with moles is their potential to develop into melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. That’s why regular self-examinations and professional mole screenings are essential for early detection and treatment.
Different Types of Moles
Moles come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and while most are harmless, some require monitoring or removal. At Altitude Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists provide comprehensive mole evaluations to ensure your skin remains healthy and cancer-free.
Common Moles (Acquired Nevi)
Common moles, also known as acquired nevi, are small, round or oval, and typically brown or flesh-colored. They often develop in childhood or adolescence due to sun exposure and genetics. Most people have 10 to 40 acquired moles by adulthood.
While common moles are benign, patients often seek reassurance or removal for cosmetic reasons or if the mole becomes raised, irritated, or prone to rubbing against clothing. Our dermatologists can determine whether a mole is harmless or requires further evaluation.
Congenital Moles (Birth Moles)
Congenital moles are present at birth or appear shortly after. These vary in size and color, ranging from tiny specks to large, dark patches.
While most congenital moles remain benign, larger ones (over 20 cm) carry a higher risk of developing melanoma later in life. Regular skin exams are essential for monitoring changes, and surgical removal may be recommended for high-risk cases.
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Atypical (Dysplastic) Moles
Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, are larger than common moles and often have irregular shapes, Uneven borders
or multiple colors (brown, tan, pink, or red)
While most dysplastic moles are non-cancerous, they have a higher potential to develop into melanoma.
If you have multiple atypical moles or a family history of melanoma, routine dermatologist screenings are strongly recommended.
Spitz Nevus
A Spitz nevus is a reddish, pink, or brown mole that can appear suddenly, typically in children and young adults. These moles are often raised, dome-shaped, and smooth, sometimes containing white or black dots.
Although Spitz nevi are usually benign, they can resemble melanoma under the microscope. A biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis, and removal is often recommended for suspicious cases.
Halo Moles
A halo mole is a regular mole surrounded by a white, depigmented ring. This occurs when the immune system attacks pigment-producing cells, causing the area around the mole to lose color.
Halo moles are usually harmless and may eventually fade or disappear. However, because loss of pigment can sometimes be linked to autoimmune conditions, a dermatologist evaluation is recommended if multiple halo moles appear suddenly.
Blue Nevus
A blue nevus is a small, blue-gray or dark blue mole caused by pigment cells deeper in the skin. These moles are often round, smooth, and stable over time.
While most blue nevi are benign, any rapidly growing, changing, or painful blue mole should be examined to rule out malignant melanoma, as some rare cases may develop into blue nevus melanoma.
Cancerous Moles (Melanoma)
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, developing when abnormal melanocytes grow uncontrollably. It can spread quickly if not caught early, making early detection critical.
The ABCDE Rule for Identifying Melanoma:
A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other
B – Border irregularity: Edges are uneven, jagged, or blurred
C – Color variation: Multiple shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue
D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (size of a pencil eraser)
E – Evolving: Changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms (itching, bleeding)
If you notice any changes in a mole, schedule an urgent dermatology exam. Early detection of melanoma dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment.
What Causes Moles?
Moles form when melanocytes (pigment-producing skin cells) cluster together rather than spreading evenly across the skin. Several factors influence mole development and changes, including:
- Genetics – Family History of moles or melanoma
- Sun Exposure – UV radiation can trigger new mole formation and cause existing moles to darken
- Hormonal Changes – Puberty, pregnancy, and aging can alter mole appearance
Moles form when melanocytes (pigment-producing skin cells) cluster together rather than spreading evenly across the skin. Several factors influence mole development and changes, including:
Mole Treatments Offered By Altitude Dermatoplogy
At Altitude Dermatology, we offer comprehensive mole evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment using the latest minimally invasive techniques to ensure your health and cosmetic satisfaction.
Mole Screening and Diagnosis
Early detection is critical in identifying cancerous or abnormal moles. Our dermatologists use advanced dermatoscopic technology to examine moles beyond what the naked eye can see, allowing for precise diagnosis and timely intervention.
Surgical Removal
For suspicious, changing, or bothersome moles, surgical excision may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the mole and a small margin of surrounding tissue under local anesthesia to ensure all abnormal cells are extracted. Our dermatologists use precise techniques to minimize scarring and promote healthy skin healing.
Laser Therapy
For benign moles that are cosmetically concerning or located in sensitive areas, laser mole removal offers a non-invasive alternative. Light energy breaks down the mole’s pigment, gradually fading its appearance without requiring incisions.
Cryotherapy
Smaller non-cancerous moles can be treated with cryotherapy, a quick and painless procedure that freezes the mole using liquid nitrogen, causing it to shrink and fall off naturally over time.
Why Choose Altitude Dermatology for Mole Treatment?
Expertise in Mole Management
Our board-certified dermatologists specialize in mole evaluation, early skin cancer detection, and precision treatments. Whether you need routine monitoring or mole removal, our team provides expert care with patient safety as the top priority.
Personalized Care Plans
Every patient’s skin is unique, which is why we tailor mole treatment plans based on mole type and characteristics, medical history and risk factors, and aesthetic concernss, so you can make the best decision for your skin health.
State-of-the-Art
Technology
We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to provide safe, effective, and minimally invasive options for mole evaluation and removal.
