Moles, scientifically known as Nevi, can appear on various parts of the body. Though they are benign lesions that can be congenital or acquired later in life, they can sometimes signal skin diseases.
Moles on the body should be observed carefully, and if there is any change in color, shape, or size, a specialist should be consulted without delay. A nevus is a term for a skin lesion that can be present in every individual and is generally benign. Any type of nevus can change shape over time and with age, and malignant cell proliferation can occur. Therefore, regular nevus monitoring is very important, and if any change is noticed, a specialist doctor should be consulted without delay. Changes to be noted include color change, growth or sudden shrinkage of the mole, crusting on the surface, itching, and leakage.
How Are Nevi Examined?
Through a method called dermatoscopy, the image of moles is magnified and examined, and if necessary, a biopsy can be taken. This way, skin cancer called melanoma can be detected and treated at an early stage. When such a threat is perceived, the intervention method is determined according to the type and location of the nevus.
Should Be Monitored at 6-12 Month Intervals
Moles can be removed through Radiotherapy, Plexr Laser, Cryotherapy, or surgical intervention. Each of these are procedures that can be done with simple and local anesthesia. Following the application of Radiotherapy or Plexr Laser, crusting occurs in the area first, which then sheds on its own to leave a pink mark. This pink area returns to skin color over time. The healing of the scar varies according to the depth, size of the removed nevus, and the area taken. Generally, these treatments are completed in one session. The removed mole is sent for pathological examination if necessary. Moles should be monitored at 6-12 month intervals. Moles on the palms, fingertips, and soles should be monitored more carefully as they may become malignant due to trauma and, if necessary, should be removed at an early stage by surgical procedure.
Protect Yourself from Sunlight
Moles can be present on our bodies from birth, but they can also multiply over the years due to the effects of sun exposure. Using sunscreen is indispensable to prevent the multiplication of moles and skin aging. To protect from the harmful rays of the sun, it is very important to use a hat and sunglasses and to protect the skin from sunlight.
Attention Should Be Paid to These Symptoms in Moles
If there is a wound formation on the mole that does not heal for a long time, if the shape of the moles is asymmetrical and the edges are irregular, if they have a large diameter with changes on the surface, size, and shape, if they contain multiple colors, or if there are complaints such as bleeding or itching, a dermatology specialist should be consulted without delay. Moles can be treated according to their structure using laser techniques or surgical methods. A pathological examination is conducted on the moles removed through surgery to determine whether they are benign or malignant. Some benign moles can be removed almost without a trace or with minimal visible scarring using laser. Moles that can be addressed with laser technique can be treated significantly in a single session, even if the number is high.
Red Moles on the Body and Their Significance
Red moles that suddenly appear on your body are generally benign skin formations formed by small clusters of blood vessels known as "port wine stains" or "angiomas." While the formation of red moles on the body can increase with age, they can also develop due to genetic factors or hormonal changes. Although they are mostly harmless, if there is a sudden increase in their number or changes in existing moles, a dermatology specialist should be consulted. Some red moles on the body, although rarely, can be indicative of a systemic health issue.
Why Do Moles Appear on the Body?
The formation of moles on our body emerges from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Especially prolonged exposure to the sun can increase both the number of moles on the body and cause changes in existing ones. Moreover, during processes such as hormonal changes, pregnancy, puberty, or aging, an increase in moles on the body can be observed. While some moles may be present from birth, others may appear later in life.
What Does Proliferation of Moles on the Body Mean?
The proliferation of moles on the body may not always be indicative of a serious condition. Moles that multiply quickly and uncontrollably should definitely be evaluated by a dermatologist. It is very important to intervene early if many new moles form in a short time or if existing moles show signs of growth or color change. To prevent mole proliferation on the body, using sunscreen, protecting from sun rays, and having regular skin checks are quite effective methods.
Characteristics of Black Moles on the Body
Black moles on the body usually occur in areas with a high concentration of melanin pigment. Black moles may be congenital or develop over time. Although generally benign, care should be taken when there are indications such as irregular edges, color changes, or rapid growth. Especially the structural change of black moles can be an early sign of skin cancer, so such changes should not be ignored.
How Do Later Developing Moles on the Body Disappear?
The treatment of later developing moles varies according to the type of mole and the doctor's recommendation. While no treatment is necessary for benign moles, they may need to be removed due to aesthetic concerns or risk factors. Methods such as surgical excision, cryotherapy, or laser treatment are effective for the removal of later developing moles. The healing process after treatment may vary depending on the method applied and the size of the mole. Especially with laser methods, the risk of scarring can be minimized. Regardless of the method applied, later developing moles must be evaluated by a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do red moles form on the body?
Red moles that suddenly appear on the body, medically called "angiomas," usually result from the dilatation of small vessels under the skin. These formations are mostly benign and increase in frequency with age. While genetic predisposition primarily accounts for the development of red moles, hormonal changes, aging, liver diseases, and side effects of some medications can also trigger their formation. They often do not pose any health problems besides aesthetic concerns. It is recommended to evaluate these moles through dermatological examination if they show signs of growth, darkening in color, itching, or bleeding over time, which allows for early detection of potential skin problems.
Why do moles appear on the body?
Moles form due to the clustering of melanocyte cells that produce the melanin pigment in the skin. Genetic factors play a decisive role in this process; hence, if family members have a lot of moles, mole formation may occur more frequently in you as well. Furthermore, excessive exposure to the sun is a significant factor in mole formation. Childhood exposure to intense sunlight can increase the risk of mole formation in later ages. During periods of hormonal change such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, the emergence of new moles is natural. Some moles are congenital while others develop later due to environmental factors. Regular monitoring of new moles on the body is important for skin health.
Is the proliferation of moles on the body dangerous?
The increase in the number of moles does not always indicate a malignant condition. Mole proliferation can be observed in young ages and during periods of hormonal change. However, changes in the shape of moles, loss of symmetry, darkening of color, irregular borders, itching, bleeding, or rapid growth are among the early signs of skin cancer. When such changes are noticed, consulting a dermatologist is highly important. Specialists examine moles using a special device called dermatoscope, and if necessary, conduct further evaluations such as biopsies. Remember, early diagnosis plays a major role in the treatment of serious diseases like skin cancer.
How do later developing moles on the body disappear?
The complete removal of later developing moles is possible; however, this varies depending on the type, size, depth, and location of the mole. A thorough evaluation by a dermatologist before starting treatment is crucial. If the mole is bothersome aesthetically or considered medically risky, it can be removed using various methods. Laser applications are preferred for eliminating pigmented superficial moles, while deeper or suspicious moles may be removed using surgical excision. In surgical interventions, the mole is extracted under local anesthesia and is usually sent for pathological examination. For superficial moles, a freezing method called cryotherapy may be used. Only the dermatologist should decide which method to apply, and patients should avoid self-intervention. Otherwise, unwanted outcomes such as infection, scarring, or severe skin reactions may occur.