Know more about Moles

Overview 

A mole is a common benign growth of the color cells of the skin called melanocytes. Melanocytic nevus is a medical name for mole. Moles are commonly found in almost everyone's body. Moles that appear right from the birth are termed as birth marks. However, not all birthmarks are moles. 


Moles normally appear in the first year of life and the number increase during the second and third decade. The number of moles can also increase due to the increase in sun exposure. Some moles may disappear in the seventh to ninth decade of life. Number of moles on your body is the strongly indicates the risk of developing a malignant melanoma. Researchers believe that number of innocent moles on the skin and the chances of developing an abnormal or changing mole have direct relationship. 


Basic facts about Moles 


Moles present in the arm area predict the number of moles elsewhere on the body. Usually, body parts that are exposed to the harmful sun rays are more affected. These parts of the body would have more number of moles. Highly dense mole area would have moles that are less than 5 mm in diameter. Larger moles are found on intermittently sun exposed areas such as back and chest. Moles are likely to grow in size before 20 years of age. As you grow old, normal moles are unlikely to grow. 


Puberty is the time when the developments of moles are at its peak. Moles may have following feature and characteristics:

• Moles may vary in color such as brownish, brownish-black, blue-black or skin colored.
  
• Moles can develop individually or in a group.
  
• Some moles might seem smooth or "warty".
• Initially, they are flat but may grow in size. Some moles may also grow hairs over it.
  
• Sometimes, moles slowly fade and go away.
  
• As you grow old, some moles may change and disappear. 
  

Keep a close eye on Moles 


Moles can be dangerous as they can develop into malignant melanoma. Often, they do not hurt or pain you, but you must keep a record of your moles to prevent future health problems. Some of the essential tips to keep a close look at your moles are as follows:

• Keep a record of the area of your moles.
  
• Keep a record of their size and shape.
  
• Keep a count on the number of moles. This will help you to recognize the additional moles.
  
• Also note the shape and color of larger moles.
  
• If the mole size changes in size and color or begin to itch or bleed, immediately contact your doctor.
  
• Molemax is a machine which will take pictures of your body and store them. Few days later when you come back and take the pictures from the machine, doctor will evaluate the numbers and appearance of the moles.
  

Protecting yourself from Moles 


Follow the listed tips to avoid moles on your body:

• Always wear the clothes that can provide protection to the entire body.
  
• Apply sunscreen before leaving the home in sunny days.
  
• Wear a hat which gives shade to your face.
  
• Use zinc cream on the moles that are not covered by the clothes.