WHAT ARE MOLES
Moles are clusters of pigmented cells called melanocytes that are small, dark brown spots in appearance. They may be seen on face , arms, legs and torso. Around 10-40 moles can be found on a persons body. Basically, there are 2 types of moles - congenital nevi which means moles at birth and dysplastic nevi. Only 1 percent of the population has congenital nevi. Such moles have a higher tendency to develop into malignant melanoma (cancerous growth) than moles that develop after birth. Dysplastic nevi commonly called atypical moles are much larger than common moles and can appear in different shapes and non-homogeneous colours. They are mostly passed down from parents . They are not dangerous but sometimes may take the form of cancer. Moles can also develop from exposure to sunlight.

Moles are generally benign and do not create any health problems. They are neither irritating, painful or itchy and therefore can be left alone. However, there is still a chance for the moles to develop into cancerous growth. Living in Israel with a lot of sun , it can be best to remove especially the moles exposed to the light. Moles are mainly removed for cosmetic reasons or because the moles are irritating especially for those which come into constant abrasion with clothing or skin folds.

Please be aware that some moles that are birthmarks , cannot be removed , also freckles and if a person sweats a lot .

HOW TO IDENTIFY SUSPICIOUS MOLES
How to identify if moles are cancerous. Here are some obvious symptoms/signs to look out for in the moles on your skin.

1) Drastic Change In Appearance
Have the moles grown in size, changed colour and shape? Are they beginning to bleed, scale, itch or even hurt?

2) Change in Symmetry of Moles
If your mole does not look uniform, ie has now become asymmetrical where both halves don't seem to match.

3) Irregular Borders/Edges

Are they rounded or edgy? Do they have rough, protruding surfaces?

4) Colour of Moles
One thing you need to observe is the homogenity of the colour. Healthy moles are homogeneous in colour.

5) Size of Moles
As a rule of the thumb, any mole larger than a button is suspicious.

You should ask your dermatologist to examine your moles if you realize any of the above abnormalities. What the dermatologist would do is to perform a simple biopsy, ie extract a small tissue sample from the mole and scrutinize it under the microscope or send it for laboratory testing.

Medical mole removal may be necessary if the mole is found to be cancerous. Most people remove non malignant moles for cosmetic reasons.

Many people are scared of medical removal and scars , that’s why my treatment may be a better solution .

In my clinic I use a painless quick treatment using a special formula to remove moles warts and papillomas. Normally one treatment is enough but if the pigment is deep then a few treatments may be necessary.

I give recommendations of special ointments following the treatment to ensure the best chance of full healing and healthy skin where the moles were.

Please feel free to phone for a free phone consultation to determine what may be the best step for you to take.