Moles are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body, including the scalp. They range in color from skin tone to brown or black. Most individuals develop moles during childhood and adolescence, with adults often having 10 to 40 moles.
Understanding Scalp Moles
Moles form when melanocytes, the cells producing skin pigment, grow in clusters instead of spreading evenly. This clustering creates the visible spots. Genetics influence the number and location of moles. Sun exposure, particularly UV rays, can stimulate melanocytes, leading to new moles or changes in existing ones. Scalp moles are challenging to detect and monitor because hair often hides them.
When Scalp Moles Are Harmless
Many scalp moles are benign, meaning non-cancerous and harmless. Benign moles often have a uniform color, such as brown, tan, black, or skin-colored. They are commonly symmetrical, round or oval, with clear, regular borders. Benign moles usually remain stable in size and are typically smaller than 6 millimeters, about the size of a pencil eraser. They can be flat or raised, smooth or rough, and hair may grow from them.
Identifying Potentially Concerning Scalp Moles
Changes in existing moles or new, unusual moles can signal melanoma, a serious skin cancer. The “ABCDE” rule guides identifying concerning moles:
A is for Asymmetry: one half of the mole does not match the other.
B is for Border irregularity: edges are uneven, ragged, or blurred.
C is for Color variation: multiple colors or uneven color distribution within the mole, such as tan, brown, black, red, white, or blue.
D is for Diameter: moles larger than 6 millimeters (about a pencil eraser’s size) warrant attention, though melanomas can be smaller.
E is for Evolving: any change in the mole’s size, shape, color, or elevation over time.
Other warning signs for a scalp mole include itching, tenderness, or bleeding. Scalp melanomas can grow quickly, making prompt evaluation important if observed.
Next Steps for Scalp Mole Concerns
If a scalp mole shows concerning changes, seek professional medical advice. Consult a dermatologist, a doctor specializing in skin conditions. The dermatologist will perform a visual examination. They may use a dermatoscope, a specialized handheld microscope, for a magnified view. If suspicious, a biopsy may be performed, removing a tissue sample for microscopic analysis to determine if it is cancerous. Early detection of skin cancer significantly increases successful treatment chances and improves outcomes.
Importance of Regular Scalp Checks and Protection
Regularly checking your scalp for new or changing moles maintains skin health. Self-examining the scalp is challenging due to hair. Using a handheld mirror with a larger mirror can help, or ask a trusted partner, family member, or hairdresser for assistance. Protecting the scalp from sun exposure is also important. Wearing wide-brimmed hats provides a physical barrier against UV rays. Specialized scalp sunscreens, available as sprays or powders, can be applied to exposed areas, especially for those with thinning hair or visible parts.