What causes moles to appear on your face?

What causes moles to appear on your face?

Moles are caused when cells in the skin (melanocytes) grow in clusters or clumps. Melanocytes are distributed throughout your skin and produce melanin, the natural pigment that gives your skin its color.

Should I worry about a new mole?

When an old mole changes, or when a new mole appears in adulthood, you should see a doctor to check it out. If your mole is itching, bleeding, oozing, or painful, see a doctor right away. Melanoma is the deadliest skin cancer, but new moles or spots may also be basal cell or squamous cell cancers.

Is it normal to get new moles on your face?

They can be anywhere on your body, alone or in groups. Almost all moles are benign (noncancerous). But new moles in an adult are more likely to become cancerous than old moles. If a new mole appears when you’re older, or if a mole changes in appearance, you should see a dermatologist to make sure it’s not cancerous.

Is it normal to grow new moles?

Moles, or nevi, typically form during childhood and adolescence, but new moles can appear in adulthood. Although most moles are noncancerous, or benign, the development of a new mole or sudden changes to existing moles in an adult can be a sign of melanoma. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer.

What are the signs that a mole could be skin cancer?

Signs that a mole could be turning cancerous are that it is getting larger, not smaller. Other signs that a mole could possibly be turning malignant are irregular pigmentation, with some darker areas, and lighter areas, crusting or bleeding, and itching. rarely disappear.

How to tell if moles are skin cancer?

Skin Cancer Screening Schedule. If you notice changes in a mole ‘s color or appearance, you should have a dermatologist evaluate it. You also should have moles checked if they bleed, ooze, itch, appear scaly, or become tender or painful.

Does a new mole on my face indicate skin cancer?

Although a new mole doesn’t always mean cancer , the mole might be malignant and your chances of beating cancer increase if you catch it early [source: American Cancer Society ]. You’re also more likely to develop skin cancer if you already have a lot of moles or freckles, so check yourself regularly for any new moles that look different.

Is that a mole or a sign of skin cancer?

A mole (nevus) is a benign growth of melanocytes, cells that gives skin its color. Although very few moles become cancer, abnormal or atypical moles can develop into melanoma over time. “Normal” moles can appear flat or raised or may begin flat and become raised over time. The surface is typically smooth.