Moles are common skin growths, often appearing as small, colored spots on the skin. Many people wonder if the presence of hair on a mole indicates it might be cancerous. This article clarifies the relationship between hair and moles and, more importantly, highlights the crucial signs that are more reliable for identifying potentially concerning moles.
The Truth About Hair and Moles
The presence or absence of hair on a mole is not a reliable indicator of whether it is benign or malignant. Hair grows from hair follicles, which are structures in the skin, and moles are simply clusters of pigment cells within the skin. If a mole develops in an area where a hair follicle exists, hair can grow right through it.
In some cases, hair growing from a mole might even suggest the mole is healthy. Cancerous cells can sometimes damage hair follicles, which might cause hair growth to stop. Noticing hair on a mole should not automatically lead to alarm about skin cancer; the focus should instead be on changes in the mole itself.
Key Characteristics of Concerning Moles
Since hair growth is not a definitive sign, other characteristics are important for identifying potentially dangerous moles. Healthcare professionals use the “ABCDE” rule to help identify signs of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. This rule outlines specific features to look for during skin self-exams.
Asymmetry means that one half of the mole does not match the other half if an imaginary line were drawn through its center. Border irregularity refers to edges that are uneven, scalloped, notched, or poorly defined, unlike the smooth, even borders of most harmless moles.
Color variation, with multiple colors or uneven distribution (including shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue), is another important sign. Diameter is concerning if the mole is larger than 6 millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser. While melanomas can be smaller, this size serves as a general guideline.
Evolving refers to any change in the mole’s size, shape, color, or elevation over time. New symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting within a mole also require prompt evaluation. Additionally, the “ugly duckling” sign suggests that a mole that looks different from all others on your skin should be examined.
Common Types of Skin Cancer
Melanoma is a severe form of skin cancer that originates from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. It can develop anywhere on the body, sometimes appearing within an existing mole or as a new spot on previously clear skin. Melanomas can present in various colors, including shades of black, brown, red, pink, purple, or even skin-colored.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, appearing on sun-exposed areas like the face, head, and neck. It presents as a shiny, pearly bump that may be pink, red, or skin-colored, sometimes with visible blood vessels. BCCs can also look like flat, firm, pale, or yellowish areas, resembling scars, and may bleed easily after minor injury.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common skin cancer, found on sun-exposed skin. SCCs can appear as persistent, scaly red patches that may crust or bleed, open sores that do not heal, or wart-like growths. These lesions may feel tender or raised and can increase in size over time.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Regular self-skin examinations monitor changes in moles and identify new growths. Perform these checks monthly, paying attention to all areas of the body, including those not regularly exposed to the sun. Annual professional skin checks by a healthcare provider are also recommended, particularly for individuals with many moles or a history of significant sun exposure.
Consult a healthcare professional if any mole exhibits the ABCDE characteristics, if a new mole appears in adulthood, or if an existing mole changes in any way. Symptoms such as itching, pain, tenderness, bleeding, or a sore that does not heal should also prompt a medical evaluation. Early detection of skin cancer improves treatment success and outcomes. For instance, early-stage melanoma has a high five-year survival rate.