What's the Difference Between Moles and Freckles? Learn the Signs

What's the Difference Between Moles and Freckles?

Moles and freckles are very common skin growths, but they have key differences. Understanding what distinguishes moles from freckles can help you monitor changes to your skin over time.

Appearance of Moles vs. Freckles

Moles and freckles have distinct appearances:

• Moles are usually darker brown or black. They are circular or oval-shaped.
• Freckles are flat, light brown spots. They are often small and scattered in clusters.

The color, size, shape, and height of moles and freckles allows them to be told apart upon visual examination.

Causes and Genetics

Moles and freckles have different developmental origins:

• Moles form from clusters of pigment-producing cells in the skin. There is often a genetic predisposition for moles.
• Freckles emerge with sun exposure and do not have a genetic basis. They form from an accumulation of the pigment melanin in the outer layer of the skin.

If moles run in your family, you are more likely to develop them yourself. Freckling is not hereditary.

Quantity and Location

The number and positioning of moles versus freckles also differs:

• Most people have between 10-40 moles. They often first appear in childhood and adolescence.
• Freckles can be numerous, sometimes over 100. They tend to emerge on sun-exposed areas like the face and arms.

While moles can develop anywhere on the body, freckles only appear on sun-exposed skin.

Risks and Changes

It's important to monitor moles and freckles for abnormal changes over time:

• A small number of moles may transform into melanoma, which is a serious form of skin cancer.
• Freckles themselves do not become cancerous. But an underlying mole could be hiding beneath a freckled region.

See your dermatologist promptly if you notice any moles or freckles changing in size, color or shape. This could signal skin cancer.

When Should Moles Be Evaluated by a Doctor?

Most moles are harmless, but its important to monitor their appearance for abnormal changes that could indicate skin cancer. See your dermatologist if any mole shows signs like:

Asymmetry

Benign moles tend to have symmetrical shapes. Melanoma moles often have irregular, asymmetrical borders.

Irregular Borders

The edges of non-cancerous moles are normally smooth and well-defined. Melanoma moles can have notched or blurred borders.

Color Changes

Common moles are usually tan/brown with consistent coloring. Variations in color from brown to black, reddish or blue/gray can signal melanoma.

Diameter Changes

While ordinary moles are generally smaller than 6mm, melanoma moles may rapidly increase in size. Sudden growth warrants medical evaluation.

Elevation Changes

Most regular moles sit relatively flat against the skin. An elevation in thickness above the skin surface can indicate abnormal changes.

Evolution Over Time

Carefully compare photographs of moles over time to check for modifications in shape, color and size. Noticeable changes could reflect malignancy.

Bleeding or Itching

Most moles do not bleed or itch. Any mole that bleeds, oozes, crusts or itches repeatedly should be examined by a dermatologist promptly.

Appearance in Children/Teens

While moles in older adults have a higher chance of becoming cancerous, suspicious changes in children/teens still require urgent evaluation.

When To Get Annual Skin Cancer Screenings

Annual clinical skin exams by a dermatologist can catch early signs of melanoma from changing moles. You may need more frequent screenings if you have:

• Numerous moles (more than 50)
• Atypical, large moles
• Increased lifetime UV light exposure
• Family history of melanoma
• Personal history of skin cancer

During your skin cancer screening, the doctor will carefully inspect all moles for abnormalities. They may photograph certain moles to monitor modifications over time.

Imaging tests or biopsy of suspicious moles may be conducted. Early melanoma detection and treatment leads to better outcomes.

Takeaway on Monitoring Moles

Periodically self-check your moles at home between screenings. Comparing photographs and looking for asymmetry, irregular borders, color changes or growth could reveal trouble early. Seek prompt medical advice for evaluation of changing moles to protect your health.

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.