Do you know your moles?

What are moles?

Moles are small patches on the skin that form due to collections of cells called melanocytes, which produce the colour (pigment) in your skin. The scientific name for moles is melanocytic naevi. They usually look like large very dark freckles.

 

What do moles look like normally?

Moles are often a brownish colour, although some may be darker or skin-coloured. They can be flat or raised, smooth or rough, and some have hair growing from them. Moles are usually circular or oval with a smooth edge. Freckles, on the other hand, are small tan or brown spots which develop on the skin after repeated exposure to sunlight.

 

Do moles often change?

Moles can change in number and appearance. Some fade away over time, often without you realising. They also sometimes respond to hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy (when they may get slightly darker), teenage years (when they increase in number), or in older age (when they may disappear from 40 to 50 years of age onwards. Some times after people have laser therapy for hair removal etc. they may find a mole changes, or indeed disappears.

Sometimes the skin around a mole loses its colour. In such cases, the mole appears to be surrounded by a white ring. This is known as a halo naevus and is harmless. It occurs most often in children and teenagers. While moles can increase in size over time, they should not change shape or colour. If you notice the shape or colour of a mole changing, visit your GP immediately.

How can I tell if my mole is dangerous?

Most moles are harmless. However, some have a slight risk of becoming cancerous. Those with an increased likelihood of becoming cancerous are called dysplastic naevi. They are usually larger in size than most moles, with irregular colouring. Their edge may not be as well defined as a normal mole. Moles which are present at birth (congenital pigmented naevi) sometimes have an increased chance of becoming cancerous too. However whether you are born with moles, or they develop over time, you should check them regularly for any changes in colour or shape. If you have moles in an awkward place which makes them difficult to check, get somebody else to do it for you. If you notice changes in any of your moles, or if your mole starts to bleed, visit a GP immediately.

 

Is it normal to have a hairy mole?

Yes. Many people have hair growing out of their moles. While you should regularly check your moles for any changes in shape or colour, the growth of hair is nothing to worry about. If the hair is unsightly, for example, if it is on a mole on the face, you may wish to have it removed. Many people in this position simply remove the hair. There are no risks from removing the hair and it doesn’t lead to faster growth or changes - although there are plenty old wives tales about that!

 

When to see a doctor

If you're over 20 years old and a new mole appears, see your doctor. These signs and symptoms may indicate a medical concern:

Why is it so important to check moles?

Melanoma is a cancer of the cells that make melanin, the melanocytes. It's one of the most common cancers both in Ireland and worldwide. It is increasing faster than any other cancer and it is rising rapidly in Ireland. Each year around 700 cases of melanoma are diagnosed in Ireland. But this number is likely to greatly increase in future years, so you should always take adequate precaution in the sun, as sun burn and over exposure to the sun are the highest risk factors in skin cancer.

 

Some tips when checking your moles:

With the advent of camera phones, it can be a useful precaution to photograph your moles (after placing a small ruler or coin next to it) and check back on the photos with time. This helps people identify if a mole is growing and changing.

 

When checking your moles, remember the letters A, B, C, and D.