Moles

What are moles?

Moles are pigmented spots which appear on the skin. They can often appear during childhood or adolescence without a known cause. Most moles are nothing to worry about and only become a concern when they change colour, size, or shape. In some cases people prefer to have them removed for aesthetic reasons, but this is largely done through the private sector as the NHS do not offer cosmetic mole removal. It is also worth noting that moles may also fade or disappear over time, and sometimes can darken during pregnancy. If you see noticeable changes in a mole, it is always best to have it checked by your doctor or dermatologist.

What do moles look like?

Moles can be varied in size, shape, and colour. They can be flat or raised, and most moles are oval or round-shaped. They may also have a smooth or rough texture, and have hair growing from them. Moles should be checked out by a doctor if you notice the following:

A change in shape
A change in colour or a separation of colour
Bleeding
Itching
Crusting of the skin
An increase in size
The mole becoming more ‘raised’

What are the causes?

Moles or nevus occur when melancocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin, grow in clusters. Exposure to the sun influences their appearance, shape and size. Those who are fair-skinned are more likely to develop moles.

Can it be prevented?

Monitoring sun exposure can prevent the appearance of some types of mole.

What is the treatment?

The dermatologist should keep track of the patient's moles, checking all those which change colour and shape or cause pain, or itch or bleed. If any of these symptoms present, the dermatologist may suggest mole removal as a precaution, in order to prevent melanoma developing. This operation is performed on an outpatient basis.

Articles related to Moles

Skin cancer detection: Recognising suspicious moles

By Dr Ravi Ratnavel
2022-06-27

Moles are small, coloured growths that can appear anywhere on the skin. While they are usually harmless, changes in size, shape or colour could indicate skin cancer. Dr Ravi Ratnavel, renowned consultant dermatologist, provides an expert overview of suspicious moles. See more

Why do we get moles?

By Dr Firas Al-Niaimi
2022-06-26

Nearly everyone has moles - small pigmented growths on the skin that vary in shape and size - but it is important to keep an eye on them in case they change. Dr Firas Al-Niaimi explains. See more

Radiowave mole removal: how does it work?

By Dr JJ Masani
2022-06-26

Aesthetic expert Dr JJ Masani explains the technique he uses to remove a mole through the use of radiowave technology, leaving fast, pain-free and scarless results. See more

Mole mapping: what to expect

By Dr Ben Esdaile
2022-06-26

The best mole mapping procedure is a combination of both full body digital photography and dermoscopy. Dermoscopy is a non-invasive skin surface examination using a microscope that allows skin structures to be magnified that are not normally seen with the naked eye. The aim of mole mapping is to detect skin cancer as early as possible. Dermatologist Dr Ben Esdaile gives us the ins and outs of mole mapping and how to know if a mole is harmless or potentially a cause for concern. See more

Experts in Moles