Difference between mole and birthmark

If you are born with a mole, it is considered a birthmark. People often call these birthmarks “beauty marks.” But not all moles are birthmarks. Moles usually are small, round brown spots (no bigger than about the size of a pencil eraser), but they sometimes can be larger and can be different colors.

In truth, a mole and a beauty mark are the same thing.

Moles like this can be located on the face, neck, shoulder/collarbone area in order to be considered a beauty mark. And while attractive, they are still moles and should be treated as such should they change in shape, size, or color.

Congenital melanocytic nevi are commonly called moles. They can be present at birth or appear during the first year of life. These birthmarks are common, found in 1-3% of newborns. Congenital nevi can look very different from each other.

Café au lait spot birthmarks

These are coffee-coloured pigmented patches on the skin that are generally no cause for concern, although if your child develops more than six spots, or they measure more than 5cm in diameter, you should see your doctor.

If members of your family have moles then it is likely that the cause of your moles is genetic. Growing moles after childhood is also an indicator that they are genetically caused. Moles that are caused by your genes are more likely to develop into melanoma. Sunlight is the main cause of developing moles.

“Having a lot of moles is a sign of having a greater probability of skin cancer,” said Kristina Callis-Duffin, MD, assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Utah. “An abundance of moles means your skin cells are particularly active, which can increase the risk of cells becoming cancerous.”

Moles, particularly non-cancerous ones, can be easily removed with a minor surgical procedure. This type of mole removal can be done in an outpatient setting. Moles can be surgically removed, burned away or shaved off. There is a minor risk of infection, but side effects are generally minor.

Normal moles

A normal mole is usually an evenly colored brown, tan, or black spot on the skin. It can be either flat or raised. It can be round or oval. Moles are generally less than 6 millimeters (about ¼ inch) across (about the width of a pencil eraser).

It’s important to get a new or existing mole checked out if it: changes shape or looks uneven. changes colour, gets darker or has more than 2 colours. starts itching, crusting, flaking or bleeding.

Removing moles by cutting them off with a sharp object like scissors or a razor blade carries risks, too. Cutting off any growth increases your risk of infection, especially if the tool you use isn’t properly sanitized. You can also create a permanent scar where the mole once was.

If you have any moles that are larger than most, have smudgy or irregular edges, are uneven in colour or have some pinkness, you should see a doctor and get them checked. Any moles that appear newly in adulthood should be checked. The most concerning sign, however, is a changing mole.

Short answer: Yes. “There are normal changes that can occur in moles,” Kohen says. “For example, moles on the face can start out as brown patches, and over time as we grow older, these moles can raise up, lose color and simply become flesh-colored bumps.” Moles can lighten or darken in color, and raise or flatten.