What are the symptoms of moles?
Moles typically appear as:
- Small, dark spots on the skin
- Brown, black, or tan colour
- Flat or raised texture
- Rounding shape
- Small clusters of spots in some cases
What causes moles?
Moles are caused by groups of skin cells that grow together. They can develop as a person gets older and are influenced by factors like:
- Sun exposure
- Genetics (family history)
- Hormonal changes, such as during puberty
How common are moles?
Moles are very common. Most people have between ten to forty moles on their body. New moles can develop up until a person’s mid-30s.
Who is more likely to get moles?
Some people are more likely to have moles than others, including those who:
- Have fair skin or light hair
- Spend a lot of time in the sun
- Have a family history of moles
How can I treat moles?
Most moles do not need treatment, but if someone wants to remove a mole for cosmetic reasons or if it looks unusual, a doctor can help. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery to cut out the mole
- Freezing the mole
- Laser treatment
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Final thoughts
Moles are common and usually harmless, but monitoring changes is essential. If you are concerned about any moles, speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
