Understanding Moles vs. Skin Cancer: Know the Difference for Better Skin Health

Our skin changes as we age, gathering marks that tell the stories of our lives.  Among these marks, moles are often front and center. While most moles are harmless, it's crucial to discern between benign spots and potential signs of skin cancer.

What Are Moles?

Moles, scientifically known as nevi, are small, colored spots on the skin that develop when pigment cells (melanocytes) grow in clusters. They can appear at birth or develop throughout life due to genetic factors and sun exposure1. Moles can be flat or raised, usually round or oval, with distinct edges. They are typically brown but can range from flesh-toned to dark brown (National Cancer Institute, n.d.).

Types of Moles:

Congenital Moles: These are present at birth and have a slightly higher risk of developing melanoma (National Center for Biotechnology Information, n.d.).

Acquired Moles: These develop later in life due to sun exposure or genetic factors. Most moles fall into this category (National Library of Medicine, n.d.).

Atypical Moles (Dysplastic Nevi): These moles have irregular borders, uneven coloring, and can be larger. While they're not cancerous, having many atypical moles may increase melanoma risk (Cleveland Clinic, n.d.).

Understanding Skin Cancer:

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, primarily triggered by damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. The two most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d.).

Differentiating Moles from Skin Cancer:

        Asymmetry: Moles are usually symmetrical, while skin cancer spots might have uneven shapes.

Borders: Moles tend to have regular and well-defined borders. Skin cancer spots may have ragged or blurred edges.

Color: Moles are usually a single color. Skin cancer spots might exhibit shades of tan, brown, black, red, white, or blue.

Diameter: Moles are generally smaller than a pencil eraser (6mm). Skin cancer spots can be larger, but size isn't the only indicator.

Evolution: Any change in a mole's size, shape, color, or elevation, or if it starts to itch, bleed, or crust, could be concerning (National Cancer Institute, n.d.).

Seeking Professional Evaluation:

If you're uncertain about a mole or spot on your skin. There is no substitute for an annual in-person examination by a certified dermatologist. For an expert opinion without worry or wait, download the CheckMySpot app and receive results on a single skin lesion.

Prevention and Awareness:

Sun Protection: Shield your skin from harmful UV rays by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade.

Regular Check-ups: Annual skin checks with a dermatologist and CheckMySpot can aid in the early detection of potential skin cancer.

Self-examinations: Get familiar with your skin's landscape. Any change in a mole's appearance should be addressed promptly.

Distinguishing between moles and skin cancer is vital for maintaining optimal skin health. While most moles are benign, being familiar with your skin can make a difference. Understanding the signs of skin cancer and prioritizing sun protection are proactive steps to prevent skin-related health issues. Remember, when in doubt, visit CheckMySpot to have a board-certified dermatologist review your skin lesion and give you the answers you need from the convenience of home.

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). What Is Skin Cancer? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/what-is-skin-cancer.htm.

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Dysplastic Nevus (Atypical Moles). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24841-dysplastic-nevus-atypical-moles#:~:text=Dysplastic%20nevus%20is%20a%20mole,a%20life%2Dthreatening%20skin%20cancer.

National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Moles Fact Sheet. National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/moles-fact-sheet.

National Center for Biotechnology Information Title of the Web Page: Congenital Melanocytic Nevi - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559270/#:~:text=Congenital%20melanocytic%20nevi%20are%20pigmented,potentially%20transform%20into%20malignant%20melanoma.

National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Understanding Genetic Traits: Moles. https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/traits/moles/#:~:text=These%20moles%20are%20called%20acquired,such%20as%20adolescence%20and%20pregnancy.