Is That Mole Cancerous?

About 1 in 10 people in the United States have at least one atypical mole, which could be a sign of cancer. But not all weird-looking moles (skin spots) are cancerous. Knowing the signs of skin cancer helps you recognize the difference between harmless spots and cancerous tissues. 

See the aesthetics specialists at Dermatology Associates of Central New Jersey in Old Bridge, Union, Toms River, or Freehold, New Jersey, if you notice a new or changing mole.

Moles 101

Moles are common skin growths that often appear as small, darker spots on the skin caused by pigment-forming cells. Many people have 10-45 moles on their bodies that typically appear on children or teenagers. Some moles change in appearance over time, but most are harmless. Sometimes, however, atypical moles turn cancerous when not removed. 

Signs of cancerous moles

Signs of potentially cancerous moles to watch out for include:

• New moles that appear during adulthood
• Moles that change in size, shape, color, or overall appearance
• Moles with asymmetrical shapes
• Skin spots with notched, irregular, or scalloped borders
• Large moles (greater than ¼-inch in diameter)
• Itching or bleeding moles
• Pearly or waxy bumps
• Crusty sores
• Skin spots containing multiple colors

The Dermatology Associates of Central New Jersey experts should observe any skin spots that look unusual or change in appearance. 

Determining if a mole is cancerous

The only way to learn if a mole is cancerous is to undergo a biopsy or have the mole removed and sent to a lab for testing. If a mole is cancerous, the Dermatology Associates of Central New Jersey specialists use advanced techniques to ensure all the cancerous cells are removed (with minimal scarring).

It’s helpful to see your dermatologist yearly for routine skin checks and examine your skin at home regularly (report any new or unusual skin changes to your dermatologist right away). 

Risk factors for cancerous moles

Common risk factors for cancerous moles include overexposure to tanning beds or sunlight, frequent sunburns, and not protecting your skin while outdoors. Having previous cancerous moles or a family history of skin cancer is also a risk factor. 

Reduce your risk of cancerous moles by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats — or avoid being outdoors when the sun is at its hottest (between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm).

See the experts at Dermatology Associates of Central New Jersey at the first sign of a potentially cancerous mole. Contact us today by phone or request an appointment online.