Moles
Moles (nevi) are natural skin features arising from pigment cell groups. While mostly benign, a gentle professional check is wise if you notice shifts in shape or color, as early care ensures peace of mind and your lasting skin health.
What are moles?
Moles (nevi) are common skin growths formed by clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. They can be flat or raised and may be pink, brown, black, or skin-colored. Most moles are benign (non-cancerous).
Different types of moles
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Common mole (acquired nevus): Usually small, round or oval, with an even color and smooth border.
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Congenital mole: A mole that is present at birth or develops shortly afterward; it can range from small to very large.
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Atypical mole (dysplastic nevus): Often larger or irregular in shape and color. These may have a higher association with melanoma, particularly when multiple atypical moles are present.
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Spitz nevus: Typically a pink, red, or brown raised mole, more commonly seen in children and young adults.
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Blue nevus: A usually blue or blue-gray mole caused by pigment cells located deeper in the skin.
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Halo nevus: A mole surrounded by a lighter ring of skin due to an immune response against the mole.
Important: A mole that changes in size, shape, color, or texture, or starts bleeding, itching, or hurting, should be checked by a dermatologist.
When should a mole be evaluated?
Use the ABCDE warning signs to identify moles that should be checked by a dermatologist:
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A — Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
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B — Border: Edges are irregular, uneven, blurred, or notched.
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C — Color: Uneven coloring or multiple colors, such as brown, black, red, white, or blue.
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D — Diameter: Larger than about 6 mm (¼ inch), roughly the size of a pencil eraser.
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E — Evolving: Any noticeable change in size, shape, color, or symptoms such as itching or bleeding.
F — “Feeling” or different: A mole that looks noticeably different from your other moles—the “ugly duckling” sign—can also warrant evaluation.
A mole doesn’t need to meet all of these criteria to be concerning. If a mole is changing
Treatment options for moles
Benign moles
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Observation: Most harmless moles don’t need treatment and can simply be monitored for changes.
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Shave removal: A raised mole can sometimes be removed by shaving it flush with the skin.
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Surgical excision: The entire mole is cut out, often when complete removal is desired or when the mole needs to be examined under a microscope.
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Cosmetic removal: Benign moles may be removed for cosmetic or irritation-related reasons after evaluation by a clinician.
Concerning or suspicious moles
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Biopsy: A suspicious mole is sampled or completely removed and sent to a laboratory for histopathologic examination.
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Complete excision: If testing confirms melanoma or another concerning lesion, additional surgical removal may be needed to ensure appropriate margins.
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Further treatment: Confirmed melanoma may require additional surgery and, depending on its stage, treatments such as immunotherapy or targeted therapy.
Important: Concerning moles should generally be evaluated before cosmetic removal, because the tissue may need to be examined for skin cancer.
Start getting routine skin checks in your 20s, and have an annual skin exam if you have a family history of skin cancer. At home, check your skin once a month for new, changing, or unusual moles and spots. If you notice anything concerning, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist for evaluation.
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Michael Tee, MD, PhD
Clinical Director & Founder
Dr. Michael Tee focuses on helping patients manage a comprehensive range of skin conditions that can significantly impact daily comfort and confidence. He works extensively with patients experiencing skin changes during pregnancy, helping them navigate the complex dermatological shifts that occur during this important time. His practice also centers on mole evaluation and management, including atypical moles that require careful monitoring and assessment. Dr. Tee regularly treats patients dealing with acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and various forms of eczema, conditions that can affect both appearance and quality of life.