What are moles?

Moles, or nevi, are spots on the skin that may appear as black, brown, red, pink, tan, or flesh-colored. Many adults have about 10-40 moles. They are common and often harmless, but abnormal moles could indicate skin cancer. See the Integrated Dermatology of NJ team if you notice unusual or changing moles or if you have moles you’re interested in removing. 

Is a mole cancerous?

Signs of cancer include moles that:

• Bleed
• Are irregular
• Contain multiple colors
• Have irregular borders
• Change in color, size, or overall appearance 
• Appear after age 30
• Itch 
• Are scaly
• Ooze
• Are painful or tender
• Increase in elevation
• Are larger than a pencil eraser 

Any moles that change in appearance may indicate cancer. See the dermatology team anytime you notice new or unusual lesions. Screen your skin monthly for new or changing moles and schedule a skin check at Integrated Dermatology of NJ once yearly.

What are the risk factors for moles?

Anyone can develop moles, but a family history of many moles, having fair skin, and frequent sunlight or tanning bed exposure increases your risk. While you can’t always prevent them, protecting your skin from the sun and tanning beds is an excellent way to reduce freckles, moles, and the risk of skin cancer. 

How does a specialist diagnose benign or cancerous moles?

The Integrated Dermatology of NJ team discusses your medical history and symptoms, examines your skin, and obtains a skin biopsy to screen for cancer. They develop a treatment plan based on whether or not your mole is cancerous and your cosmetic goals.

How are moles treated?

If a mole isn’t cancerous, you don't need to remove it. However, your specialist can still eliminate a mole if you’re unhappy with its appearance.

Mohs surgery is a common treatment for skin cancer. During this procedure, your provider removes cancerous tissues one layer at a time until no cancer remains.

Other mole-removal methods include surgical excisions and shave excisions. Your provider first numbs the treatment area and uses specialized methods to eliminate a mole. You may require stitches after the removal of a large mole. While some scarring develops afterward, it may fade over time.

Schedule a mole evaluation at Integrated Dermatology of NJ by phone or request one online today.