Moles can develop anywhere on your body for a number of reasons. Initially, people who have more than two or three moles dotting their skin may have a genetic predisposition for acquiring moles. Moles are not simply overactive skin growths that can be easily removed, like a callus or skin tag. Instead, moles are clusters of pigment cells melanocytes that accumulate in a small area and develop into moles. Normally, melanocytes spread throughout the epidermal layer of our skin to give us our normal skin color.
When is a mole a problem? | American Academy of Dermatology
Everyone has moles, sometimes 40 or more. Most people think of a mole as a dark brown spot, but moles have a wide range of appearances. At one time, a mole in a certain spot on the cheek of a woman was considered fashionable. However, not all moles are beautiful. They can be raised from the skin and very noticeable, they may contain dark hairs, or they may be dangerous. Moles can appear anywhere on the skin. They are usually brown in color but can be skin colored and various sizes and shapes.
Melanoma, the most-serious skin cancer, can begin in a mole. A bleeding or itchy mole can be a sign of melanoma. If you are 30 years old or better, a new or changing mole could also be a melanoma. Found early, melanoma is highly treatable.
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