Moles are growths on the skin that can appear just about anywhere on the body. They can be tan, brown, black or pink in color. Adults can have up to 40 common moles. These moles form when melanocytes that are cells responsible for the development of melanin, which grows in clusters rather than distributing out evenly on the epidermis. Melanin is the pigment that is the cause of our skin color.
Moles on the skin usually surface in a young age or throughout the early adult years. Basically, all moles are not malignant, and yet some of them turn out to be cancerous after some time. Those who have moles during their adult years need to be more careful because it is a bit uncommon to acquire moles in that particular age, and that could result in melanoma, which is a serious form of skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to their symptoms frequently. Understanding about the various types of skin moles can be beneficial, as these skin growths can turn into melanoma.
Different Types of Moles on the Body
Atypical Nevi/Dysplastic Nevi
These moles have relatively larger size and have unusual shape. They are benign moles that look like melanoma. It is considered that people who have these moles might be at a higher risk of acquiring melanoma. If you notice that the number of such moles rises, it is highly recommended to seek medical treatment.
Halo Nevus
Typically, these moles have white circular ring around them. Over a period of time, the color changes in such a mole. These often cure after a while. Even though these are generally not cancerous, it would be better to have them checked.
Congenital Moles
These moles are normally present at birth. They can be black or dark brown in color. They appear as a result of the growth of melanocytes in the skin. Generally, congenital moles are benign, and a change in size or color has to be the only reason to worry. Also, talk to a dermatologist, if your mole is unusually large.
The following are effective procedures for the removal of mole. They work differently but they all have one purpose and that is to remove unwanted mole.
- Surgical Procedure – This method is the most common approach designed to get rid of moles. Normally, surgical procedure is advised in order to treat cancerous mole in which the mole and the underlying cells must be taken out completely. Have the mole analyzed before undergoing any kind of removal process. The mole type will often determine which procedure to have.
- Cosmetic Procedure – In this removal treatment, laser beam is utilized to break apart the cells of the moles. The heat coming from the laser device is absorbed by the mole pigment cells, which in turn leads to the breakdown of cells. Then, the body absorbs the pigment cells over the process of healing. This treatment is basically effective in getting rid of new, flat and small moles, considering that the laser beam is unable to reach deep enough into the layers of the skin.
- Natural Procedure – Natural treatment solution makes use of herbal products such as over-the-counter cream to break out the skin moles. To treat mole the natural way with such skin creams, you should scrape the mole slightly before using the cream on the mole. This enables the cream to seep through into the layer of the skin and blast the cells. You will notice some scab forming in a few days. Do not pull the scab prematurely, instead allow it to disappear naturally as this can result in scar formation.
Precaution
It is advisable to examine your body at least every month for skin moles. Men typically acquire moles on the back, while women often have them on the lower leg. However, it would be better if you look at your own body, for example, after a bath or when your body is wet. Check body parts such as your arm pits, neck, behind the knees, where the moles are not apparent easily. Make sure to always consult your doctor to get your mole analyzed prior to any removal procedure.
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