Spotting a mole on your skin is usually no big deal. After all, they are incredibly common, especially for people with fair complexions. But how do you know when a mole is just a harmless spot or a sign of something more serious?

Moles, known medically as nevi, are small clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. They can range in color from flesh-toned to deep brown or black and may be flat or raised. Most moles are benign, meaning they aren’t dangerous. But certain changes in a mole’s appearance could indicate a warning sign for skin cancer, including melanoma-the most serious type. 

There are 4 main types of moles. Congenital moles are present at birth or soon after. These moles are usually harmless, although large congenital moles may carry a slightly higher risk for developing melanoma later in life. Acquired moles develop during childhood or adolescence, often triggered by sun exposure or hormonal shifts like pregnancy. These are the most common and are typically uniform in shape and color but still deserve attention if they start to evolve. Atypical moles, dysplastic nevi, are often larger than a pencil eraser, with irregular shapes, uneven coloring and jagged borders. Because these moles can sometimes evolve into melanoma, dermatologists keep a close eye on them. Spitz nevi are pink, dome-shaped and raised, commonly appearing in children and teens. They can look like melanoma, so dermatologists often recommend a biopsy if the mole changes or grows. 

So, when should you worry? The golden rule dermatologists follow is the ABCDEs of melanoma detection:

• Asymmetry-One half doesn’t match the other

• Border-Edges are irregular, ragged or blurred

• Color-Varies from one area to another, including unusual shade like red, white or blue

• Diameter-Larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser)

• Evolving-Any noticeable change in size, shape, color or texture

Any mole that bleeds, itches or suddenly grows is an immediate red flag and should be checked by a dermatologist. While many moles are removed for cosmetic reasons, moles showing atypical traits or posing health risks should be evaluated and possibly biopsied for your safety.

Moles are not the only spots that appear on the skin. Several conditions can look strikingly similar, adding confusion and risk if misidentified. These include:

• Seborrheic Keratosis: Often mistaken for moles, these are waxy, wart-like growths that stick to the skin’s surface. While benign, their rough texture and irregular and irregular coloring can mimic more serious lesions. 

• Skin Tags: Small, soft, flesh-colored growths that dangle from the skin. Unlike moles, they don’t contain pigmented cells and are not linked to cancer. 

• Freckles: Flat and usually light in color, freckles are small clusters of concentrated melanin caused by sun exposure, not an overgrowth of skin cells. 

• Lentigines (Age Spots): These flat, darkened patches result from UV damage and are more common with age, often confused for moles but typically harmless. 

• Melanoma: The most serious look-alike, melanoma can initially present as a mole or develop from an existing one, making professional evaluation crucial. 

Regular skin checks, both at home and by a professional, are the best way to catch skin cancer early, when it’s highly treatable. If you’ve noticed a mole changing or fitting any description in the ABCDEs, don’t wait. Early detection can save lives. If you’ve noticed something unusual on your skin and you’re just not sure what it is? Trust your instincts and let us take a closer look. Your skin tells a story-let’s make sure it’s a healthy one. Give THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology a call at 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE to schedule a personalized skin check.