Moles are common skin growths, appearing as small, colored spots on the skin. Most individuals have at least a few moles, with the average adult having between 10 to 40. While the presence of moles is usually harmless, experiencing a burning sensation in or around a mole can understandably cause concern. While a burning sensation can be alarming, it often stems from benign and easily explainable causes.
Common Reasons for a Burning Sensation
A mole might feel like it is burning due to various everyday factors. One common reason is friction, where clothing, jewelry, or even skin folds rubbing against a raised mole can lead to irritation and soreness. This constant rubbing can cause the mole to become inflamed.
Sun exposure is another frequent culprit. Moles are susceptible to sunburn. Prolonged time in the sun without adequate protection can irritate a mole, causing it to feel sensitive or burn. This irritation is similar to how a sunburn affects the surrounding skin.
General skin dryness or irritation from external factors can also contribute to a burning sensation. Allergic reactions to new soaps, lotions, detergents, or other topical products can affect the skin around a mole, leading to discomfort. Minor injuries, such as accidentally scratching a mole, can also make it sore and inflamed, potentially causing a temporary burning feeling.
Recognizing Concerning Signs
While a burning sensation alone might be benign, its combination with other specific signs warrants closer attention. The ABCDEs of melanoma serve as a widely recognized guide for identifying potentially problematic moles. “A” stands for Asymmetry, meaning one half of the mole does not match the other half in appearance.
“B” refers to Border irregularity, where the edges of the mole are uneven, scalloped, notched, or poorly defined. “C” signifies Color variation, indicating that the mole has multiple colors or uneven shades of tan, brown, black, or even areas of white, red, or blue. “D” represents Diameter, suggesting that a mole larger than 6 millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser, should be evaluated, though melanomas can be smaller.
“E” stands for Evolving, meaning the mole is changing in size, shape, color, elevation, or developing new symptoms. These symptoms include persistent itching, bleeding without obvious injury, or crusting. The appearance of a non-healing sore is also concerning. A mole that changes in texture, such as becoming scaly or developing a lump, especially if accompanied by a burning sensation or pain that does not improve within a few days to a week, should also be examined by a healthcare professional.
When to Seek Medical Advice and Next Steps
It is advisable to consult a dermatologist or general practitioner if any of the concerning signs are present. A medical evaluation is also recommended if a burning sensation in a mole is persistent, worsens over time, or if there is any general worry about a mole’s appearance. Early detection of skin conditions, including melanoma, can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
During a medical appointment, the doctor will examine the mole, often using a dermatoscope, a specialized magnifying tool. If the mole appears suspicious, a biopsy might be recommended for laboratory analysis. Protecting all moles from the sun with sunscreen and protective clothing is important. It is also beneficial to avoid irritating moles and to keep the skin moisturized to prevent dryness that could cause discomfort.