What Causes Moles?
Ever wonder where do moles come from? Or what causes moles?
Many people do ask this question in their lifetime and there
is a simple answer. Moles begin as a cluster of cells that
grow in the skin instead of branching out and spreading all
over the body. The cells, also known as melanocytes, create
the pigment colour that people have in their skin. Many
moles develop in the early years and can keep developing for
the next twenty-five years or so. The moles might change colour
from exposure to sunlight, or they might change shape and
size. It is quite normal to have about 15 to 35 moles by the
time a person is around 25 to 30 years old. Throughout these
years moles tend to become raised and some even grow hair.
Some moles can disappear as someone ages and some moles may
stay the same colour, size, and shape since they first developed.
There are different types
of moles that can develop and the most common ones are
called congenital nevi which are moles that are created when
someone is born into the world. These type of moles are quite
common and people from around the globe have this skin condition.
These moles should be monitored as they are at a higher risk
of melanoma which is cancerous cells. If the congenital mole
has increased in size, shape, or changed colour they should
be examined by a doctor, or dermatologist. If they have any
of the ABCDE symptoms of melanoma they should be examined
immediately.
The characteristics of the melanoma mole ABCDE’s include:
- Asymmetry – Check to see if one half of the mole is a different size or shape from the other half.
- Border – Check to see if the colour of the mole varies. If the border is black, brown, red, or tan then get it examined.
- Colour – If the colour is different throughout the mole such as half brown, half pink, then get the mole checked by a doctor.
- Diameter - Check the diameter of the mole. If it is over 6 millimeters then get it looked at by a dermatologist of doctor.
- Evolving – If the mole is evolving and changing its colour, shape and size it must be examined immediately.
Where do red moles come from?
Red moles come from a build up of blood vessels within the skin and either become raised or stay flat. They are not painful and usually only become irritated when scratched at. A red mole can develop if a brown mole has been in the sun too long. People tend to get these types of moles removed if they suddenly appear on the face or neck.
It is always important to do a self check on moles and dermatologists usually recommend this to their clients. Moles can be benign for a long time and then suddenly develop into a melanoma, therefore, it is imperative to monitor skin and keep up with regular doctor visits and check ups.
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