Moles are dark spots on the skin made up of clusters of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin (skin pigment). They can appear from birth or sun exposure and vary in number, shape, and size. Fair-skinned people often have more moles, and adults usually have 10–40 moles.

Most moles are harmless, but regular checks are important, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer. DermPro helps you track your moles, monitor changes, and get an instant risk indication.

Types of Skin Moles

By Risk

• Common Moles: Small (5–6 mm), smooth, dome-shaped, with clear edges. Usually harmless.
• Atypical Moles (Dysplastic Nevi): Irregular borders, uneven colours, and flat and raised areas. Mostly benign, but multiple atypical moles increase cancer risk.
  

By Time of Development

• Congenital Moles: Present at birth or in the first year. Can pose a higher risk for melanoma later in life.
• Acquired moles: Appear during childhood or adulthood. Usually harmless, often due to sun exposure, but needs monitoring.
  

By Location / Structure

• Junctional Nevi: Slightly raised, darkly pigmented, and appear in childhood or early adulthood.
• Intradermal Nevi: Skin-coloured, blend with surrounding skin, appear in late childhood/adulthood, and are usually safe.
• Compound Nevi: Have features of both intradermal and junctional moles, raised centres, flat edges, and even pigmentation.
• Halo Nevi: Raised moles with a ring of lighter skin; benign if diagnosed properly.
  

How to Know if Your Mole is Safe

Safe moles usually:

• Have smooth, dome-shaped surfaces
• Neat edges
• Around ¼ inch (6 mm) in diameter
• Remain consistent in shape, size, and colour over time
  

Keep an inventory of your moles to track any changes. Understanding what's normal helps detect skin cancer early.

Warning Signs That a Mole May Be Cancerous

Check your moles for:

• Changes in size or shape
• Irregular borders or multiple colours
• Loss of symmetry
• Itchiness, pain, bleeding, or scabs
• Crustiness or inflammation
• Changes in elevation (raised areas)
  

If you notice these, see a doctor immediately.

ABCDE Checklist for Melanoma

• A – Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other
• B – Border: Uneven or blurred edges
• C – Colour: Multiple shades of brown, black, or tan
• D – Diameter: Larger than ¼ inch (6 mm)
• E – Evolution: Changes in size, colour, or shape over time
  

Check Your Moles with DermPro

DermPro lets you scan your moles, track changes, and get instant risk assessments. Regular monitoring with DermPro ensures you catch suspicious spots early and maintain healthy skin.

Download DermPro and start checking your moles today.