Total Skin Solutions

A mole is a small, dark spot on the skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the majority of moles appear during the first two decades of a person’s life while about one in every 100 babies are born with moles. Acquired moles are a form of benign neoplasm, while congenital moles are considered a minor malformation or hamartoma. A mole can be either subdermal or a pigmented growth on the skin. The high concentration of the body’s pigmenting agent, melanin, is responsible for their dark color.

Some scientists suspect that overexposure to ultraviolet light (UV), including excessive sunlight, may play a role in the formation of acquired moles. UV radiation from the sun causes premature aging of the skin and skin damage that can lead to melanoma. However, more research is needed to determine the complicated relationship between one’s heredity and overall exposure to ultraviolet light. A strong indication that this is so (but falling short of proof), is the relative lack of moles on the buttocks of people with dysplastic nevi. Another is that freckles (spots of melanin on the skin, and distinct from moles) are known to be influenced by sunlight.

Studies have found that sunburns and too much time in the sun can increase the risk factors for melanoma. This is in addition to those who have dysplastic nevi being at higher risk of this cancer. (The uncertainty is in regard to acquiring benign moles.) To prevent and reduce the risk of melanoma caused by UV radiation, the American Academy of Dermatology and the National Cancer Institute recommends staying out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.. The National Cancer Institute also recommends wearing long sleeves and pants, hats with a wide brim, sunscreens, and sunglasses that have UV-absorbing lenses.

These fact regarding moles should aid when considering your anti-aging regimen.