Moles are dark spots on your skin that occur because of an overproduction of melanin, a skin pigment, in that particular area. Almost every person has at least a few moles, and some of yours might have been there since birth. Others show up as you get older. 

Healthy moles tend to be round and have just one color, usually a shade of brown. They can appear anywhere on your body and may be flat or slightly raised.

Most moles aren’t cause for concern and are simply cosmetic. However, you should keep track of the moles you have and watch them for any changes in their shapes, sizes, or colors. Melanoma, a type of skin cancer that originates in melanin-producing cells, can cause changes to the way a mole looks.  

You should report to your dermatologist at Integrated Dermatology of Boise:

• Bleeds.
• Itches.
• Grows bigger.
• Changes color.

Some minor changes in a mole’s appearance are natural parts of aging and are not cause for concern, like slight darkening or lightening. However, if you’re at risk of skin cancer due to your personal or family medical history, your dermatologist might advise you to visit for regular skin cancer screenings at Integrated Dermatology of Boise. 

If your dermatologist examines a mole and finds it to be suspicious, they take a biopsy and examine the tissue sample more closely in a laboratory. 

Even if a mole isn’t cancerous, you might not like the way it looks. Some moles are raised and can cause irritation depending on their location. If you have a mole on your neck, for example, it might snag on necklaces. Some moles are difficult to conceal with clothing or makeup. 

If you decide you want to remove a mole, Integrated Dermatology of Boise can examine the mole and remove it. Mole removal involves a minor surgery that takes just minutes in the dermatology office. Your dermatologist numbs the skin around your mole before performing the excision and may remove a margin of healthy skin around the growth too.  

Your dermatologist advises you of the risk of scarring after mole removal and makes sure you understand what the healing process entails. If you see moles grow back after excision, contact Integrated Dermatology of Boise right away. 

Moles are mostly harmless, but you should be aware of the risk of melanoma. Call Integrated Dermatology of Boise or schedule an appointment online for mole removal or examination today.