Perfect skin is found only on airbrushed models. We all have marks here and there randomly placed on our bodies. With all the talk of skin cancer many people worry about what skin marks are okay and what ones they should worry about.
One of these common skin marks that raise the most questions is the mole. It’s important if you want to protect yourself (and loved ones) from skin cancer to be informed about the basics of your skin and in particular the mole.
There are various types of moles and conditions surrounding moles that can change throughout your life. Let’s explore the basics of moles.
Moles (also called nevi or nevus) are a growth or mark on the skin. Some moles appear at birth or in childhood. Others show up on adult skin later in life. They are usually brown or black in color appearing anywhere on the body and skin. Moles can change as we age, becoming raised, growing hairs, or changing colors. Some remain the same, some disappear (Beware of drastic changes in moles size, shape, or color.)
Sun exposure (particularly before adulthood) and pregnancy are two factors that can impact and change the appearance of a mole. Moles are very much like people; each one is unique and they can change over time. Technically, moles are made of cells called melanocytes. These cells are normally spread evenly throughout the skin to give it pigmentation or color. In the case of the mole, these cells stay clustered in one area creating the darker colored, slightly different area of skin. Normal moles, especially ones that have been on the body since childhood, are usually of no concern. Experts advise to keep on eye on moles that develop after the age of 20 or ones that look different in appearance from others on your body.
