Moles are common skin growths that naturally change throughout life. Understanding their typical evolution and recognizing when a change might signal a need for medical attention is important for skin health.
Typical Mole Changes Over Time
It is normal for moles to appear, change in size, and even disappear over a person’s lifetime. Most moles develop during childhood and adolescence, with new ones continuing to form up to about age 40. Benign moles often grow slowly and symmetrically over many years, and their color can vary from flesh-toned to brown or black. Some moles may even become raised or develop hair. As individuals age, moles may lighten in color, become more raised, or even fade away completely. These gradual, uniform changes are generally normal.
Identifying Potentially Concerning Moles
While many mole changes are benign, some characteristics can indicate a more serious condition, such as melanoma, a type of skin cancer. The “ABCDE” rule is a widely used guide for identifying potentially concerning moles:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
- Border irregularity: Edges are uneven, ragged, notched, or blurred.
- Color variation: Color is not uniform throughout the mole and may include different shades of brown, black, or even patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
- Diameter: Melanomas are often larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), though they can sometimes be smaller.
- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or height, or developing new symptoms like itching, bleeding, or crusting.
Any rapid changes over weeks to months are particularly concerning.
Influences on Mole Appearance
Several factors contribute to the development and changing appearance of moles throughout life. Genetics play a significant role, influencing both the number of moles an individual may have and their susceptibility to developing new ones. Individuals with a family history of numerous moles or melanoma may have a genetic predisposition.
Sun exposure, particularly to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, is another primary factor. UV light can stimulate melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin, leading to the formation of new moles and changes in existing ones. Hormonal fluctuations, as seen during puberty, pregnancy, or even menopause, can also influence mole appearance, sometimes causing them to darken or change. Certain medications or a suppressed immune system can also contribute to mole changes, though this is less common for the general population.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
Regular self-examination of your skin is an important step in monitoring moles. Becoming familiar with the typical appearance of your moles allows you to more readily identify any new or changing spots. If you observe any of the ABCDE signs in a mole, or if a mole appears unusual, changes rapidly, itches, bleeds, or becomes painful, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider.
Early detection is important for conditions like melanoma, as treatment is often most effective when identified in its initial stages. Even if a new mole appears in adulthood, especially after age 40, it warrants professional evaluation, even though many new moles in adults are benign. A healthcare provider can assess the mole and determine if further investigation or removal is necessary.