There are three main types of moles:
- Congenital moles are present at birth. They are usually flat and vary in colour, but most congenital moles don’t usually result in cancer.
- Acquired moles are moles developed later in life; most are brown and appear due to sun damage. They are also round without any significant changes over time.
- Atypical moles are at a higher risk of becoming cancerous. Unlike congenital and acquired moles, atypical moles are slightly darker and have irregular-shaped borders.
Moles change slowly over the years, like becoming raised or changing colour, which explains why there are raised moles.
How to Tell If My Mole is Cancerous?
While most moles are innocuous, several might look unsightly, and a very small percentage might pose a risk for developing melanoma, a form of skin cancer. If you have concerns about your mole being cancerous, consult your doctor for a detailed examination. . When it comes to looking out for the signs of skin cancer, here are some things you might want to look out for:
Asymmetry. One half of the mole does not match the other half.
Border. The border or edges of the mole are irregular, blurred or ragged.
Colour. The colour of the mole has different shades, ranging from tan, brown, black, red, white and blue.
Diameter. The diameter of the mole is larger than the eraser of a pencil.
Evolution. The mole is changing in shape, size or colour.