While most moles are harmless, any change in their appearance, including peeling, warrants attention. This article helps differentiate between benign occurrences and those that may require medical evaluation.
What Are Moles?
Moles, medically known as nevi, are clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. These cells are responsible for giving skin its color, and when they grow together in groups, they form a mole. Most people develop between 10 to 45 moles during childhood and adolescence.
A typical benign mole is usually uniform in color, appearing in shades of brown, black, or tan. They are often round or oval with smooth, distinct borders, and can be flat or slightly raised. Benign moles are generally smaller than 6 millimeters.
Common Reasons for Mole Peeling
Moles are part of the skin, and like the rest of the skin, they can experience peeling for various non-alarming reasons. If the skin around and including a mole gets sunburned, it may peel as part of the body’s natural response to sun damage. This peeling is similar to how other sun-exposed skin sheds its damaged outer layers.
Dry skin or irritation can also cause flaking or peeling on or around a mole. Harsh soaps, friction from clothing, or minor injuries can irritate the skin, leading to dryness and subsequent peeling. If a mole has been scratched or experienced a minor injury, peeling might be part of the natural healing process as new skin cells form and old ones shed. Skin also constantly sheds dead cells as part of its natural turnover process, and sometimes this shedding can be more noticeable on a mole.
When Peeling Indicates Concern
Peeling on a mole can sometimes be a sign of a more serious condition, particularly if it accompanies other changes. The “ABCDEs” of melanoma guide the identification of concerning mole characteristics that may suggest skin cancer.
Asymmetry refers to one half of the mole not matching the other half. Border irregularity means the edges are ragged, notched, or blurred. Color variation involves uneven coloring, with shades of brown, black, or tan, or even areas of red, white, or blue within the same mole. Diameter larger than 6 millimeters, approximately the size of a pencil eraser, is another characteristic to note. The “E” stands for evolving, which includes any change in size, shape, color, or elevation. Peeling, especially if it is new or persistent, is a significant evolving sign, particularly if it occurs alongside other symptoms like itching, bleeding, or crusting.
Next Steps for Mole Changes
Regular self-examination of moles is a proactive step for skin health. Individuals can perform monthly self-checks in a well-lit room using a full-length mirror, to monitor for any new moles or changes in existing ones. Taking photos of moles over time can provide a useful comparison to detect subtle changes.
If a mole exhibits any of the ABCDE signs, or if there is any new, unusual, or persistently peeling change, seeking professional medical advice is important. A dermatologist can properly evaluate the mole and determine if further diagnostic steps, such as a biopsy, are needed. Early detection of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.