Skin & Cancer Facts - Moles

The cells which produce pigmentation often cluster together to form a melanocytic naevus - a common type of mole. Most people have these moles. A few can be present at birth, although most appear as we get older. In the elderly, they begin to fade.

These moles can be flat or raised, light or dark. Normally, they appear symmetric, with regular borders which fade gradually into the skin and display a single colour. These moles can change, but this normally occurs so slowly as to be unnoticeable.

Most moles are normal and perfectly safe. However, over exposure to the sun can increase the number and appearance of these moles and sometimes they can become cancerous as a result.