Everyone has them, on average 20 to 40. Some of us barely notice them, but unfortunately for many people they are a source of constant stress.
They constantly worry about injuring their moles, in order to protect them from any irritation. The fear is constant — during every combing, dressing, bathing.
This excessive fear is unjustified and can only cause harm, as it weakens the immune system. There is no one who has not heard some story about moles!
Let's see what is myth and what is truth?
1. Don't touch a mole — if you injure it, it might become malignant!
Wrong! Injuring a mole does not lead to malignancy. However, it is important that any injured mole be checked by a dermatologist to rule out melanoma.
2. Moles are dangerous because skin cancer starts from a mole!
Partially true — melanoma is the only skin cancer that can develop from a mole, but fortunately only 1/3 of melanomas originate from a pre-existing mole.
3. Raised moles are dangerous!
Wrong! Most people are afraid precisely of these moles. In fact, they are ordinary dermal nevi that carry no greater risk than flat moles.
4. Don't remove a mole — if you remove it you'll get skin cancer!
On the contrary, if the mole is suspicious, its timely removal can only prevent a bigger problem! Removal of moles is always done in full and there is no risk.
5. I'll remove all my moles and that way I won't get skin cancer!
Wrong! Up to 2/3 of melanomas develop on completely clear skin, not on a pre-existing mole.
6. Some moles can be removed and some cannot!
Every mole can be removed — if the dermatologist recommends it, or if it bothers us aesthetically.
7. Anyone can remove a mole, even with home remedies!
Never try to do this yourself. Many melanomas can resemble a mole, so every mole must be checked dermoscopically before removal.
8. The mole is changing, but I've had it all my life, it's not raised, it doesn't hurt — it's surely nothing serious!
We must not ignore any change on our moles. See a dermatologist who will use a dermoscopic examination to determine whether it is an ordinary mole or dangerous skin cancer.
So — don't panic, but don't ignore them either! Once a year, have a preventive dermoscopic examination of all your moles! Self-examination once a month, and if you notice a suspicious mole — have it checked by a professional!
