Moles
Moles, medically referred to as nevi, are common skin growths that appear in nearly every individual at some point in life. While most moles are harmless, changes in their appearance can signal underlying health concerns. With expertise in both cosmetic and medical dermatology, Dr. Neely Khan encourages patients to become familiar with their skin and to seek professional evaluation for any mole that appears suspicious or undergoes noticeable changes.
A mole is a pigmented skin lesion that forms when melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment, cluster together. These clusters typically appear as small, dark brown spots, but moles can vary widely in color, size, shape, and texture. While some moles are present at birth (congenital moles), most develop during childhood or early adulthood due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, particularly sun exposure. It is not uncommon for a person to have 10 to 40 moles by adulthood.
Most moles are benign and do not require treatment. However, some moles can develop into melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, which is why regular skin checks and awareness are important for early detection and prevention.
The primary factors influencing mole development include:
- Genetics: A family history of moles or melanoma increases the likelihood of developing atypical moles.
- Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds can trigger new mole formation and may alter the appearance of existing ones.
- Hormonal changes: Periods of hormonal change, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can cause existing moles to darken or prompt new moles to form.
Most moles do not cause symptoms and remain unchanged throughout life. However, any changes in a mole’s appearance or the onset of new symptoms should prompt evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist. The following symptoms may indicate a problem:
- A mole that becomes larger, especially after adolescence
- Changes in color, especially if it darkens, becomes uneven, or develops multiple shades
- Irregular or blurred borders
- A mole that becomes itchy, painful, or tender
- Bleeding, oozing, or crusting
- A mole that appears suddenly in adulthood
Dr. Neely advises her patients to use the ABCDE rule as a guide:
- A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other
- B – Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred
- C – Color: Uneven color or multiple shades present in one mole
- D – Diameter: Larger than 6 mm, though melanomas can be smaller
- E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or symptoms such as itching or bleeding
Dr. Neely Khan will perform a comprehensive skin examination to assess the type and characteristics of a mole. She may use dermoscopy (a non-invasive skin imaging technique) to examine pigment patterns and structures beneath the surface of the skin.
If a mole appears suspicious, a biopsy may be recommended. This involves removing a small portion or the entire mole and sending it to a laboratory for microscopic evaluation. Biopsies are quick and typically performed under local anesthesia in an office setting.
Moles are a natural and often harmless part of the skin. However, changes in their appearance or the presence of atypical features should not be ignored. With routine skin checks, awareness of warning signs, and professional dermatologic evaluations, patients can play a vital role in protecting their skin health. Dr. Neely Khan provides expert care in diagnosing and monitoring moles, offering both reassurance and timely intervention when necessary.
At a Glance
Dr. Neely Khan
- Board-certified Dermatologist
- Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology
- Washingtonian and Castle Connolly Top Doctor
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