Causes of Moles and Its Effect on Body

Moles are a common skin condition where a person develops skin growth, mainly due to the growth of skin cells in the form of clusters or clumps. These skin cells are known as melanocytes and are vital for skin colour as they produce melanin – the pigment that gives your skin a definite colour. Moles are often harmless and their shape and size vary from person to person; may be either flat or raised. The most common areas where one develops moles are the face and chest area. However, other areas may also experience mole growth. One of the main causes of moles  is genetic.

However, what triggers the growth of melanocytes that they start growing in clusters? It is predominantly because of genetic reasons. Although moles are very common, with one out of every 100 child born having moles, people may have problems in self-confidence, especially if the mole is on the a body part visible to everyone. Most of the times a mole is harmless but one should get in touch with a dermatologist to know whether or not it is an indication of any serious issue.

What are the causes of moles?

Moles are formed mainly due to genetic reasons and the amount of sunlight our body is exposed to. It is normally seen that when skin is more exposed to sunlight, the moles are more. The moles are usually darker in complexion as compared to the surrounding skin areas. People who are prone to freckles (tanned, slightly reddish flat spots on the skin) have more chances of mole formation than others and is one of the major causes of moles. Although it has no direct relation to the skin colour of a person, people with a lighter complexion and those having red or blond hair are more likely to develop moles on their body parts than others.

Should I worry about the moles?

Although moles are usually associated with infancy, one could see mole development in early adulthood and sometimes even till the age of 35. However, the latter is mainly due to environmental reasons than genetic and is nothing to worry about. The only thing to worry about is that if one has developed moles after crossing the age of 35, as it could potentially be a sign of early melanoma – a type of skin cancer.

In such a scenario, the ideal thing to do would be getting your moles evaluated by a dermatologist so that any serious condition may be avoided at the onset stage itself. Melanoma, if spotted in an early stage, can be treated and therefore, one should be alert if he or she notices any change in shape, size or colour of the mole. The dermatologist, upon consultation, might recommend a skin autopsy, as that would give a clear picture of whether the mole could be harmful or not.

Some people also have self-confidence issues if they have a mole on any of the visible body parts. In such a case, it is always better to get the mole removed through any of the latest techniques available. It is a quick and easy process and often takes a single session to get the mole removed; allowing you to make the best of your life without worrying about moles.

Get personalised advice about your skin condition by getting in touch with our skin specialists at HP Dermatology Centre, now!