Difference Between Birthmarks vs Moles - How to Tell the Key Distinctions

The Key Differences Between Birthmarks and Moles

Birthmarks and moles are both very common skin markings that many people have. But despite some similarities in appearance, there are important distinctions between these two types of skin spots. Understanding the key differences can help you know what to look for and when to seek medical advice about a marking.

What is a Birthmark?

A birthmark is a skin marking or irregularity that is present at birth or shows up very early in life. There are two main categories of birthmarks:

• Pigmented Birthmarks - Also called macular stains, these are caused by an overgrowth of pigment cells or blood vessels. They produce spots of different colors including tan, brown, black, red, pink or purple.
• Vascular Birthmarks - Caused by abnormal blood vessels in or under the skin that don't form properly. These appear red, pink or purple.

Common types of vascular birthmarks include salmon patches, port wine stains, hemangiomas and telangiectasias. Pigmented birthmark types include moles, café-au-lait spots and mongolian spots.

What is a Mole?

Moles, also known as nevi, are clusters of pigment producing cells called melanocytes. They form benign tumors that appear as small dark brown or black spots on the skin. Moles are considered a type of pigmented birthmark when present at birth.

But moles can also develop later in childhood or adulthood, especially with sun exposure. These are acquired moles rather than true birthmarks. Moles that are present at birth tend to be smaller and lighter in color.

Key Differences Between Birthmarks and Moles

While there is some overlap, here are some of the main distinguishing features between birthmarks and moles:

1. Time of Onset

The key difference is that true birthmarks are present at birth or shortly after, while moles can develop anytime until adulthood. So moles that arise later in life are not technically birthmarks.

2. Color

Birthmarks display a wider variety of colors compared to moles. While moles are limited to brown, black or tan, birthmarks can be red, purple, pink, white, blue or gray in addition to dark brown.

3. Border

Moles usually have a more defined border than birthmarks. The edges of birthmarks tend to be more faded, blurred or irregular.

4. Texture

Most moles are slightly raised above the skin and have a rougher texture compared to surrounding skin. Many birthmarks are flat with a smooth surface.

5. Size

Moles are often larger than many types of birthmarks. The average mole is about 6mm while some birthmarks can be very tiny.

6. Location

While both can occur anywhere, certain birthmarks favor particular locations. For example, salmon patches typically appear on the forehead and back of neck, while café-au-lait spots often form on the torso.

7. Quantity

Some types of birthmarks like hemangiomas and café-au-lait spots more commonly present as multiple markings rather than single. Moles most often appear individually.

8. Cause

Birthmarks arise from abnormal development of skin cells, blood vessels or pigments. Moles are caused by clusters of melanocytes that proliferate in circumscribed areas.

Common Types of Birthmarks

Here is an overview of some of the most common forms of birthmarks:

Salmon Patches

Also called stork bites or angel kisses, these flat red or pink vascular birthmarks appear on the forehead, back of neck, eyelids or upper lip. They are caused by dilated capillaries near the skin's surface.

Port Wine Stains

These red or purplish birthmarks are caused by dilated capillaries deeper in the skin. They are called port wine stains because the color resembles that of port wine. They mainly appear on the face, torso, arms and legs.

Infantile Hemangiomas

These raised vascular lesions appear as balls or knots of extra blood vessels beneath the skin. They are not usually present at birth but arise in early infancy, starting as small spots that rapidly expand. These tumors eventually regress and fade.

Café-au-Lait Spots

Hyperpigmented birthmarks that are flat, oval shaped and light tan to brown color. Their name comes from the French term meaning “coffee with milk” that refers to their light brown color. They vary in size and can appear anywhere on the body.

Mongolian Spots

Large, flat, blue-gray patches commonly found over the lower back and buttocks. Despite the name, they are not associated with Mongolian ethnicity and occur in babies of all races. These markings eventually fade by age 4 or 5.

Common Types of Moles

Some of the most common benign mole types include:

Junctional Nevus

Moles with distinct, smooth borders that are slightly raised. Colors are tan to dark brown or black. They have a round or oval shape and can range from 2-7mm.

Compound Nevus

These moles have both raised and flat components, often with a central papule and surrounding macule. They are also oval shaped with distinct borders. Colors range from tan to black.

Dermal Nevus

Grow deeper into the skin so they protrude more but often lack color. Can develop hair over time and commonly appear on the scalp, breasts and back.

Dysplastic Nevus

Moles with irregular borders and variations in color, size or texture. They may be larger than typical moles and are considered precursors to melanoma in some cases.

When to Seek Evaluation for Birthmarks and Moles

While most birthmarks and moles are harmless, there are some warning signs to watch for that may require medical evaluation. Consult a dermatologist promptly if you notice a lesion that:

• Changes size, shape or color over time
• Has irregular, scalloped or undefined borders
• Appears multi-colored with different shades of brown, black and tan
• Itches, hurts or bleeds easily
• Oozes or crusts over
• Grows rapidly over a short time

These characteristics can sometimes indicate a rare cancerous change in an existing mole or birthmark. So it’s important to monitor all skin lesions closely and have anything suspicious examined by a skin doctor.

Birthmark vs Mole Removal

While most birthmarks and moles are harmless, some people seek removal for cosmetic reasons if the markings are large, darkly pigmented or in a prominent facial location. Various removal options include:

Surgical Excision

Cutting out the lesion with a scalpel and suturing closed. This leaves a small linear scar and runs risk of incomplete removal leading to recurrence.

Laser Therapy

Using laser energy to target and destroy pigmented lesions without significant scarring. Not as effective for thicker moles.

Cryosurgery

Freezing lesions with liquid nitrogen to destroy abnormal cells. Can temporarily lighten skin color and requires multiple treatments.

Chemical Peels

Applying an acid solution that burns away outer skin layers to reduce pigmented lesions. Color can return over time and scarring can occur.

Discuss the various options with your dermatologist to determine the best approach based on the specific type of birthmark or mole being treated.

Key Takeaways

In summary, here are some of the main distinguishing features of birthmarks versus moles:

• True birthmarks are present at birth, while moles can develop any time until adulthood
• Birthmarks exhibit a wider variety of colors compared to the limited brown and black shades of moles
• Moles tend to have more defined borders and a raised, rough texture
• Location, size and quantity also differ between various types of birthmarks and moles
• Watch for any spots that change, itch, bleed or have irregular borders and see a dermatologist promptly

Being familiar with the differences can help you identify any concerning growths on your skin and understand when a marking is likely to be harmless.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.