Moles

Everyone has moles. Adults with a history of sun exposure or light skin will often have more moles. Moles can appear anywhere on the skin and have a wide range of appearances. Moles may be flat or raised and may develop hair. Normal moles usually have one color: skin-toned, pink, tan, brown or black. A mole should look and feel the same from month to month. We suggest that you have your moles monitored regularly by one of our dermatologists.

A mole that has uneven color, irregular borders, or is larger than average may be a dysplastic mole. Dysplastic or atypical moles have a greater risk of developing into melanoma cancer. If one of your moles grows, changes in shape, size or color, or becomes painful, itches or bleeds, call our office to have it checked.

ABCDE’s = Early Warning Signs of Melanoma

• Asymmetry - One half doesn’t match the other half
• Border - The edges are ragged, blurred or irregular
• Color - Uneven shades of brown or multiple colors are present
• Diameter - The size is larger than 6 mm or the size of a pencil eraser
• Evolving - Change in shape, size, color or sensation
  

Call to schedule a consultation today at (562) 430-4294.