What are moles?

Most people have a few moles — brown or black skin cell clusters — scattered over their skin. They’re usually flat or flush against your skin but are sometimes raised.

Around 1% of babies have them at birth (congenital moles), while others develop later. Acquired moles that appear later in life tend to darken with age and are typically caused by sun damage. Atypical moles are slightly larger than acquired or congenital moles and tend to have an unusual or uneven shape. 

While many moles are harmless, some may change, requiring a dermatologist’s expert examination. Atypical moles are the ones most likely to become cancerous.

When should I visit a dermatologist about my moles?

You should visit the Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics team if you notice any changes in your moles. Check them monthly to see if they look the same; if they don’t, it could be a sign of skin cancer.

You should book an appointment if you notice any moles have:

• Become asymmetrical (larger on one side)
• Changed color
• Grown bigger than a pencil eraser
• Blurry or irregular borders

If your dermatologist thinks a mole looks suspicious, they perform a biopsy, removing the mole or a sample of it and sending it for lab tests. 

How are moles treated?

If the lab test shows your mole is cancerous, removal is the most effective solution. Various approaches are available — your dermatologist will advise which is best for you. A simple excision cuts the mole and a little surrounding tissue out to ensure no cancer cells remain. An alternative is Mohs surgery.

With Mohs, your dermatologist takes very thin slices of the mole and examines them under a microscope. They continue like this until no cancer cells are visible. The advantage of Mohs surgery is that you only lose cancerous tissue, so your scar will be smaller. Patients often prefer Mohs surgery if their mole is in an obvious location, such as the face or forearms.

Do all moles need removing?

Moles only require removal if they become cancerous. However, you can remove moles if you find them unsightly or cause uncomfortable rubbing. The Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics team can surgically excise your mole or use a precision shaving technique.

Call Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics today to arrange a mole check or book an appointment online for prompt skin cancer diagnosis and treatment.