Different Types of Moles Explained

Understanding the types of moles you may have on your skin is essential for monitoring changes and knowing when to seek medical advice. While this article focuses on how moles form, recognising the differences between moles helps explain why they look and behave differently.

Common (Acquired) Moles

Common moles, sometimes called acquired moles, are the type most people are familiar with. They typically develop in childhood or early adulthood and often appear anywhere on the body. Key characteristics include:

  • Shape: Round or oval
  • Borders: Smooth and well-defined
  • Colour: Usually a single shade of brown, tan, or pink
  • Size: Typically small, less than 6mm in diameter

These moles are usually benign and harmless. Most do not require treatment unless they become irritated, change in appearance, or are in areas where they are frequently rubbed by clothing. While common moles rarely develop into skin cancer, it’s still important to check them regularly for any changes.

Congenital Moles

Congenital moles are present from birth or appear shortly afterwards. They can vary significantly in size, shape, and colour:

  • Size: Can be small (less than 1cm) or large (more than 20cm in rare cases)
  • Texture: May be flat or raised
  • Colour: Range from light brown to very dark brown or even black

Large congenital moles, especially those that cover significant areas of the skin, may require closer medical monitoring, as they carry a slightly higher lifetime risk of developing melanoma. Most small congenital moles are harmless but should still be included in regular skin checks.

Dysplastic (Atypical) Moles

Dysplastic moles, also known as atypical moles, are less common but important to monitor closely. They form in the same way as common moles but differ in appearance:

  • Size: Often larger than ordinary moles
  • Borders: Irregular, blurred, or scalloped edges
  • Colour: Mixed shades of brown, red, pink, or black
  • Shape: Uneven or asymmetrical

Although dysplastic moles are not cancerous, they are associated with a higher risk of developing melanoma compared to regular moles. Individuals with multiple dysplastic moles or a family history of melanoma are often advised to have regular full-body mole checks or mole mapping to monitor for any changes over time.

Monitoring and When to Seek Advice

mole check removal clinicsRegardless of the type, any mole that shows signs of change should be assessed by a trained professional. Watch for the ABCDE signs:

  • A – Asymmetry : One half of the mole doesn’t match the other
  • B – Border : Irregular or blurred edges
  • C – Colour : Uneven or multiple colours
  • D – Diameter : Larger than 6mm
  • E – Evolving : Any noticeable change in size, shape, colour, or texture

Regular mole mapping or a full-body mole check can help track these changes over time and ensure early detection of any potential problems.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering diagnosis and treatment for skin lesions including moles, cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma, xanthelasma, milia. All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field. Patients benefit from:

  • No waiting lists
  • Fully trained doctors, registered with GMC
  • Blemishes can usually be removed in the same appointment as the consultation, saving the need for a repeat visit and allowing patients to get very quick treatment
  • Choice of 4 clinics in London plus one in Bristol
  • Testing with report provided where necessary

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7731 3791.