Do moles need medical attention?

Most moles are harmless and do not require medical attention. However, it’s important to monitor moles for changes that could indicate skin cancer. The ABCDE rule can help you recognize signs of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer:

A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
B – Border irregularity: The edges of the mole are irregular, notched, or blurred.
C – Color: The color of the mole is not uniform and may include shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
D – Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters across (about the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can be smaller.
E – Evolution: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color, or is evolving in any other way.

If you notice any of these changes in a mole, or if a mole becomes painful, itchy, or starts bleeding, you should see a healthcare specialist for evaluation. Additionally, if you have a large number of moles (more than 50), a history of sun exposure or sunburns, or a family history of melanoma, you may be at higher risk for skin cancer and should consider regular skin checks by a healthcare provider.

Do freckles need medical attention?

Freckles are small, flat spots on the skin that are usually harmless and do not require medical attention. They are caused by an increase in the amount of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, in response to sun exposure.

However, it’s important to differentiate between freckles and other types of skin spots that may be more concerning, such as moles or lentigines (sun spots). Moles, in particular, should be monitored for changes that could indicate melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.

If you notice any changes in a freckle or any new or changing spots on your skin, it’s a good idea to have them checked by a healthcare provider or dermatologist. They can help determine if further evaluation or treatment is needed.

Do liver spots need medical attention?

Liver spots, also known as age spots or solar lentigines, are flat, brown or black spots that usually appear on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, arms, and shoulders. Like freckles, liver spots are usually harmless and do not require medical attention.

However, it’s important to monitor any changes in liver spots, as well as any new or changing spots on your skin. Changes in size, shape, color, or texture could indicate skin cancer, including melanoma. If you notice any concerning changes in your liver spots or other skin spots, it’s best to have them evaluated by a healthcare provider or dermatologist. They can determine if further evaluation or treatment is needed.