Your skin is an important part of your appearance, but it also plays a key role in your underlying health and wellness. Unfortunately, most people do not place enough time and energy into maintaining the look and health of their skin. Most adults and children will have one or more moles on their body. In addition, individuals with lighter skin tones could have between 10 and 40 moles on their skin. Although common, moles are not understood well. With this guide, you will understand a bit more about moles and learn how to treat this common skin issue.

Causes of Moles Vary

Skin cells should spread out evenly across your body. However, some skin cells will grow in clusters, creating moles on your body. This clustering of skin cells that causes moles may stem from a trait inherited by your parents. Also, having fair skin can increase your risk of moles. Lastly, spending excessive amounts of time in the sun may cause your skin to develop more moles.

Moles Are Not Always Round and Brown

In most cases, a mole will look like a round, skin or brown colored bump on the skin. While this is the most common way they look, your mole may have a different shape and color.

Moles Can Help you Detect Skin Cancer Early

Inspecting and documenting the shape, color, and size of your moles is smart, since they can help you detect skin cancer.

Stand in front of a full-length mirror to check your body for moles. Use a handheld mirror to reflect certain parts of your body into the full mirror, improving your ability to see moles that may be hidden behind your back. Use your smartphone to take photos of any existing moles. Or, take notes in a notebook. Make sure to document the location, size, shape, and color of your moles.

If you notice one or more of the following signs, consult a dermatologist immediately to undergo testing for skin cancer:

• Color Changes – A sudden change in color of your mole may be a sign of cancer. If one or more moles change to a black, gray, or inconsistent color, tell your doctor.
• Blurry Border – A common mole will have a defined border. A blurred border is abnormal and should be inspected by your doctor.
• Pain – Common moles should not cause you any pain. Moles that are swollen, inflamed, or painful are most likely cancerous
• Enlarged – Healthy moles should not be larger than 6 millimeters (or ¼ inches) in width. Make sure to tell your doctor about any larger moles on your body.

Skin cancer is a dangerous disease that requires serious medical care. After inspecting your moles, your doctor may conduct a biopsy to remove tissue from abnormal moles. This tissue is sent off to a laboratory for further testing. If determined that the mole is cancerous, surgical removal will be necessary. If the cancer has spread to surrounding tissue in the skin, radiation or chemotherapy will be imperative for treating the disease.

Removing Moles Is Possible

Most people understand the importance of removing cancerous moles. However, removing common moles that affect your appearance and self-esteem is also possible.

Dermatologists can remove bothersome moles in their office with only numbing medicine and a few stitches. Moles that are not rooted deep in the skin can be shaved off by your dermatologist, as well. Shave removal does not require any incisions or stitches, making it a popular choice for many patients.

Living with moles is possible, but proper understanding is essential. Using this guide and your doctor's help, you will have a better understanding of the causes and treatment options for your moles. For more information, book an appointment with a dermatology clinic like Northwest Dermatology.