WHAT CAUSES MOLES?
Moles are tiny brown spots or growths that develop on the skin, usually at earlier stages of life. Some spots are elevated while others are flat, and they are mostly round or oval-shaped. Like other brown spots, some moles are caused by sun exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can accelerate the production of melanin, which is what gives skin a brown pigmentation. When overactive pigment cells and melanin group together in higher concentrations, brown spots develop on the skin.
In other cases, an atypical mole could be melanoma, which is one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer. There are ways to tell the difference between early melanoma and an atypical mole that we cover. If you are unsure about any of the unusual brown spots on your body, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as you can.
HOW CAN I TELL THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ATYPICAL MOLES AND MELANOMA?
Melanoma spots increase in size over time. It is important to monitor any moles on your body and to keep track of their size. If you do note that a brown spot has increased in size, schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately. Additionally, melanoma does not always contain melanin, and the spots can be pink, red or your normal skin color. Melanoma or atypical moles that are in danger of becoming melanoma also come with certain warning signs/symptoms. These signs and symptoms include:
- Itchiness
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Crusting
- Oozing
- Swelling
- Elevation
- Persistent, open sores
- A bluish-black color
HOW DOES SURFACE MEDICAL ESTHETICS TREAT MOLES?
At Delle Chiaie Cosmetic Medicine, we examine and treat moles. During the examination, we will use a dermascope, which is a handheld magnifying device. This device allows us to visualize the internal skin structures and colors that are not visible to the naked eye. We can also remove irregular, atypical or symptomatic moles and lesions.
Moles are generally removed surgically, using either a shave or elliptical excision techniques. Cosmetic removal of moles is usually best reserved for raised lesions.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION IN THE SEACOAST REGION
At Delle Chiaie Cosmetic Medicine in Hampton NH on the Seacoast, we treat all kinds of complexions and conditions. The benefit of being treated at Delle Chiaie Cosmetic Medicine is you don’t just get a Surface treatment: you get the benefit of an experienced and highly trained provider with nearly 20 years in medicine. We can evaluate you both internally and externally. You may be surprised to know that a majority of skin disorders arise from a much more complex internal source. To get started, give us a call at (603) 783-1087. Stay tuned to hear about one of our amazing success stories…