Are Your Moles a Concern? Skin Health and Treatment Options

Can moles cause problems? Also, why do they have fine hairs growing on them?

I’m sorry, but I have a lot of moles all over my body, at least over 30 in total, and some of them are quite large and raised.
Sometimes, when I wear clothes or for no apparent reason, I feel pain and redness in the moles.
The dermatologist prescribed topical medication and said it’s just due to friction from clothing and nothing to worry about.
However, I read an article online that mentioned if a person has more than a certain number of moles, it could be a sign of potential cancer, which has made me very anxious and worried about what to do.
Is it effective to have them removed? I heard that the cost for mole removal is charged per session, and if the mole doesn’t disappear after one treatment, I would need to have it treated again, but the cost is $700 per session.
Is this normal? I have very fair skin and have freckles on my face, which I’ve been told are hereditary.
Even if I undergo laser treatment, they might come back.
When I was younger, I didn’t have so many moles, but as I’ve grown older, they’ve increased, and it has been a source of distress for a long time.
I’m really unsure whether to have them removed or not.
Is it worth it to pay $700 for each mole, or is it really not a concern?

ANN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/12/25

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
The number of moles on the body, whether many or few, is not a determining factor for the likelihood of malignancy and should be assessed individually.

2.
Laser mole removal is primarily for cosmetic reasons; however, it is possible for some moles to remain, so multiple treatments are completely reasonable.
If there are concerns about malignancy or to prevent future changes, surgical excision is recommended.

3.
The development of moles and spots is related to genetics and sun exposure.
While genetics cannot be altered, it is advisable to practice strict sun protection.

Reply Date: 2013/12/25

More Info

When it comes to moles and skin health, it’s essential to understand both the nature of moles and the potential concerns associated with them. Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can vary in size, shape, and color. Most people have between 10 to 40 moles on their bodies, and they can appear anywhere on the skin. While the majority of moles are benign, certain characteristics can indicate a need for further evaluation.

Given your situation of having over 30 moles, with some being raised and occasionally painful, it’s understandable to feel concerned. The general rule of thumb is that if you notice any changes in your moles—such as changes in color, size, shape, or if they become itchy or bleed—it’s crucial to consult a dermatologist. The “ABCDE” rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.

- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.

- Color: The color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue.

- Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

If your moles do not exhibit these characteristics, they are likely benign. However, the discomfort you experience when wearing certain clothing could be due to friction, which can irritate the skin. It’s essential to wear loose-fitting clothing to minimize irritation and to keep the area clean and moisturized.

Regarding the cost of mole removal, it can vary significantly based on the location, the dermatologist’s expertise, and the complexity of the procedure. In the U.S., the cost can range from $100 to $700 per mole, depending on whether it’s a simple excision or requires more extensive treatment. If a mole is removed and it grows back, it’s essential to consult your dermatologist, as this could indicate a need for further evaluation.

If you are concerned about the number of moles you have, it may be beneficial to undergo a full skin examination by a dermatologist. They can assess your moles and determine if any require removal for cosmetic reasons or further analysis. Additionally, if you have a family history of skin cancer or other risk factors, it’s even more critical to have regular skin checks.

As for the freckles you mentioned, they are often genetic and can be exacerbated by sun exposure. While laser treatments can reduce their appearance, they may return over time, especially if you continue to be exposed to the sun without protection. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily can help prevent new freckles from forming and protect your skin from UV damage.

In summary, while having many moles can be concerning, most are harmless. Regular monitoring and consultation with a dermatologist are key to ensuring your skin health. If you have any doubts or notice changes, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Taking proactive steps in skin care, including sun protection and regular skin checks, can significantly contribute to maintaining healthy skin.

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