Moles: The story of your skin's tiny patches and their health implications

Moles, also known as nevi, are common skin growths that often make their first appearance during childhood and adolescence (AAD, 2023). Although moles are usually harmless, understanding their nature and potential health implications can be helpful. In this article, we will delve into the world of moles, exploring their formation, types, relation to skin cancer, and how to monitor them effectively.

Moles are small, pigmented skin growths resulting from the clustering of melanocytes - the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that determines our skin, hair, and eye color. Moles can be present at birth or develop throughout life, with some people having 10 to 40 moles by adulthood (AAD, 2023).

The formation of moles is influenced by a combination of genetic factors and sun exposure. Certain genes predispose individuals to have more moles, while ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight can increase the number and size of moles an individual has (MPG, 2023).

There are three types of moles (MGB, 2023), namely:

• Benign nevi: These moles are known as normal moles and are not a sign of melanoma, or skin cancer. They have a low chance of turning into skin cancer.
• Dysplastic nevi: These moles, also known as atypical nevi, may have edges that are not perfectly round. They may also have more than one color, or maybe flat or raised. They have a low chance of turning into skin cancer.
• Congenital nevi: These are moles that a child may have been born with or developed soon after birth. If your child has many congenital nevi or large congenital nevus, he may have a higher risk of developing skin cancer. Talk to a doctor or a dermatologist if you have a medical concern.

Please note that one’s chance of skin cancer is also dependent on an individual’s risk factors such as but not limited to previous exposure to the sun or genetic predisposition to the disease. If you have a medical concern, please seek professional medical advice from a doctor.

Moles can be linked to skin cancer, particularly melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Risk factors for melanoma include a personal or family history of skin cancer, the presence of numerous moles, and a history of sunburns or excessive sun exposure (ACS, 2023).

Please see a doctor for professional medical advice if you notice any changes in your mole(s), such as but not limited to:

• An irregular border
• Change of colour
• Sudden increase in size
• Bleeding

Treatment options for moles depend on their nature and potential health risks. Depending on your risk factors, a doctor may recommend that you do the following:

• Monitor: Monitor the mole closely for any further changes.
• Removal: Remove the mole to eliminate the chance of skin cancer. A biopsy may also be performed.

Understanding moles and their potential health implications is vital for maintaining skin health. Regular self-examinations and professional skin checks can help detect problematic moles early, improving the chances of successful treatment. Taking preventive measures, such as proper protection from the sun and monitoring, can reduce the risk of skin cancer.

If you are keen on mole removal, be it for aesthetics or health reasons, do talk to our doctor and let us better understand your concerns. Our Toa Payoh clinic is located a sheltered 3 minutes walk away from Toa Payoh MRT.

1. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). (2023). Moles.
Retrieved from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/moles-overview on 9th April 2023

2. American Cancer Society (ACS). (2023). Melanoma Skin Cancer.
Retrieved from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/melanoma-skin-cancer.html on 9th April 2023

3. MedlinePlus Genetics (MPG). (2023). Are moles determined by genetics?.
Retrieved from: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/traits/moles on 9th April 2023

4. Mass General Brigham (MGB). (2023). Learning the Different Types of Moles.
Retrieved from: https://www.massgeneral.org/children/moles on 9th April 2023

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