Moles are common skin growths. Understanding their characteristics and what changes warrant attention can help individuals monitor their skin effectively. This article clarifies common questions about moles and guides on identifying potentially problematic ones.
Hair Growth and Moles: What It Means
Hair growing from a mole is generally a sign of a benign, or non-cancerous, mole. Moles are clusters of pigment-producing cells that form in the skin, and they can develop over areas where hair follicles are present. These hair follicles within a benign mole remain functional and can continue to produce hair, sometimes even thicker or darker hair than the surrounding skin.
Healthy moles allow hair follicles to grow through them without disruption. If a mole forms over an active hair follicle, hair will continue to grow. In contrast, cancerous moles, such as melanomas, grow rapidly and disrupt underlying skin architecture, including hair follicles. This disruption makes hair growth less likely or absent within a malignant lesion.
Identifying Potentially Cancerous Moles
Since hair growth is not a primary indicator of a cancerous mole, it is important to know the actual signs that may suggest melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Healthcare professionals often use the “ABCDE” rule to identify suspicious moles, aiding early detection.
Asymmetry is the first characteristic. A benign mole is typically symmetrical; if an imaginary line were drawn through its center, both halves would largely match. A mole exhibiting asymmetry, where one half differs in shape or appearance from the other, may be concerning.
Border irregularity refers to the edges of the mole. Non-cancerous moles usually have smooth, well-defined borders. A mole with irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred edges should be evaluated.
Color variation is another important sign. A normal mole typically has a uniform color. A mole with multiple colors, such as varying shades of tan, brown, black, red, white, or blue within the same lesion, can be a warning sign.
Diameter is often considered, with moles larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser) being of greater concern. While melanomas can be smaller, this size serves as a general guideline. Any growth in a mole’s size should prompt evaluation.
Evolution, or change over time, is the most significant indicator. This includes any changes in a mole’s size, shape, color, or elevation. New symptoms like itching, tenderness, bleeding, or crusting also warrant immediate attention.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If any of the ABCDE signs are noticed in an existing mole, or if a new mole appears after adulthood, especially after age 30, consult a healthcare professional. While most moles are harmless, any changes or new growths should be checked.
Prompt evaluation is also recommended if a mole begins to bleed, ooze, itch, or become painful. These symptoms, even without other ABCDE signs, indicate a need for medical assessment. Early detection of melanoma significantly improves treatment outcomes.