The Skin’s Small Map: What Do Moles Tell Us?
Moles are structures that form when pigment-producing cells come together on the surface of the skin. Most moles are benign and may remain on the skin throughout life. Some moles are present from birth, while others may appear over time, change color, fade or develop a different shape.
Moles can generally be brown, black, pink or skin-colored. It is normal for an adult to have more than one mole. However, certain changes noticed in the appearance of moles may require a dermatological evaluation.
Mole monitoring is important not only for aesthetic reasons, but also for skin health. In particular, moles that change color, grow, bleed, itch or develop irregular borders should be evaluated by a dermatology specialist.
Looking in the Mirror More Consciously: Why Is Mole Check Important?
Moles can appear on any part of the body. They may develop on the face, neck, back, chest, arms, legs, scalp, behind the ears and even on harder-to-notice areas such as the soles of the feet.
Regularly observing your own skin helps you notice newly appearing moles or moles that show changes at an earlier stage. However, it is not always easy to check the entire body in detail. Areas such as the scalp, back, behind the ears and soles of the feet can easily be overlooked.
For this reason, mole examination and dermoscopic evaluation help moles to be monitored more consciously. At Dr. Seher Arı Dermatology Clinic in Göktürk, Istanbul, moles are evaluated through a dermatological examination with a personalized approach.
5 Warning Signs in Moles: The ABCDE Rule
One of the commonly used evaluation methods in dermatology for mole checks is the ABCDE rule. This method makes the key changes that should be watched for in moles easier to understand.
A: Asymmetry
If the two halves of a mole do not look alike, or if its shape appears uneven or asymmetrical, a dermatological evaluation may be required.
B: Border Irregularity
If the edges of the mole are not clear, or if they appear notched, irregular or blurred, this should be taken seriously.
C: Color Change
If a mole contains more than one color tone, or if black, dark brown, red, blue or gray areas are noticed, it should be examined by a dermatology specialist.
D: Diameter
Moles that grow in diameter or exceed 5-6 mm should be monitored. However, an examination is also important for smaller moles if they show changes.
E: Evolution
A mole that grows, becomes raised, changes color, bleeds, itches or becomes sensitive within a short period may be an important warning sign.
Often Overlooked Areas: Moles Do Not Only Appear on the Face
When checking moles, it is not enough to look only at moles on the face or those that are easy to see. Areas such as the back, scalp, behind the ears, soles of the feet, between the fingers and toes, and around the nails should also be evaluated.
Regular mole monitoring becomes even more important for people with intense sun exposure, fair skin, a family history of skin cancer or a large number of moles.
If a newly appearing mole, a mole that looks different from the others or a mole that changes over time is noticed during self-examination, a dermatology appointment should be scheduled.
Dermoscopy: Examining What Cannot Be Seen with the Naked Eye
Dermoscopy is a dermatological evaluation method that allows moles to be examined in more detail with the help of a special device. Color, structure and border characteristics that cannot be noticed with the naked eye can be assessed more clearly through dermoscopic examination.
A dermoscopic mole examination helps the dermatology specialist decide which moles should be monitored and which should be evaluated for biopsy or removal.
Not every mole needs to be removed. The structure of the mole, whether it shows changes, the person’s risk factors and dermatological examination findings should be evaluated together.
Is Mole Removal an Aesthetic Decision or a Medical Necessity?
Mole removal may be considered for aesthetic reasons in some cases and for medical necessity in others. Different approaches may be evaluated for moles that cause cosmetic concern, become irritated by clothing or accessories, bleed frequently or are considered dermatologically suspicious.
A dermatology specialist should decide how a mole should be removed or whether it should be monitored. Interventions performed with unsuitable methods may make the diagnostic process more difficult and increase the risk of scarring.
For suspicious-looking moles, a biopsy may be performed if necessary, or the mole may be completely removed and sent for pathological examination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moles
Is every mole dangerous?
No. Most moles are benign. However, moles that grow, change color, bleed, itch or lose their normal shape should be evaluated by a dermatology specialist.
Can moles change over time?
Yes. Some moles may change in color, size or shape over time. However, sudden or noticeable changes require a mole examination.
How often should mole checks be performed?
The frequency of check-ups varies depending on the person’s number of moles, skin type, family history and risk factors. A dermatology specialist determines the personalized follow-up interval.
Does mole removal leave a scar?
The risk of scarring may vary depending on the location and size of the mole, the removal method, skin structure and the healing process. For this reason, a dermatological evaluation before the procedure is important.
Does a color-changing mole always mean malignancy?
Not every color change means malignancy. However, moles that change color should not be ignored and should be examined by a dermatology specialist.
Mole Check and Dermatological Evaluation in Göktürk, Istanbul
Moles are among the important indicators of skin health that should be monitored regularly. In particular, specialist evaluation should not be delayed for moles that show changes, look different or cause concern.
At Dr. Seher Arı Dermatology Clinic in Göktürk, Istanbul, moles are examined through dermatological examination and, when necessary, dermoscopic evaluation. For patients and clients coming from Turkey and abroad, the process is carried out with personalized information and a follow-up plan.
You can contact Dr. Seher Arı Clinic to learn more about mole check, mole monitoring or mole removal options.