Chevy Chase moles/nevi are a common occurrence on the skin, and most people have at least a few of them. Skin moles are caused by a cluster of pigmented cells, and they usually appear as dark brown spots on the skin. While most moles are harmless and don’t require any medical attention, there are some moles that can be a cause for concern. In this article, we’ll discuss why skin moles shouldn’t be ignored, and what you should look out for to ensure your skin stays healthy.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SKIN MOLES?
There are several different types of skin moles, and it’s important to know the difference between them. The most common types of moles include:
- Junctional moles: These moles are usually round or oval in shape, and they’re typically found on the face and neck. They’re usually dark in color and flat.
- Compound moles: These moles have a slight bump or elevation, and they’re typically light brown in color. They can be found anywhere on the body.
- Dermal moles: These moles are typically raised and flesh-colored, and they can be found anywhere on the body. They’re usually more common in older adults.
WHEN SHOULD YOU BE CONCERNED ABOUT A SKIN MOLE?
While most skin moles are harmless, there are some moles that can be a cause for concern. You should consult a dermatologist if:
- You notice that a mole has changed in size, shape, or color
- You have a mole that’s asymmetrical (meaning one half of the mole doesn’t match the other half)
- The border of the mole is ragged or blurred
- The mole is larger than a pencil eraser
- You have a mole that’s raised or has an uneven surface
- The mole is itchy or bleeds
WHY SHOULDN’T YOU IGNORE A SUSPICIOUS MOLE?
If you have a suspicious mole, it’s important not to ignore it. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and it’s estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. If left untreated, skin cancer can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.
If you have a suspicious mole, your dermatologist may recommend a biopsy to determine if it’s cancerous. If it is, they may recommend further treatment, such as Mohs surgery, to remove the cancerous cells.
HOW CAN YOU PREVENT SKIN CANCER?
The best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect your skin from the sun. This means wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and hats, and using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. It’s also important to avoid tanning beds, as they can increase your risk of skin cancer.
In addition, you should perform regular self-exams of your skin to check for any new or suspicious moles. If you notice any changes, be sure to consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.
CONCLUSION
Chevy Chase moles/nevi are a common occurrence on the skin, and most moles are harmless. However, it’s important not to ignore a suspicious mole, as it can be a sign of skin cancer. If you notice any changes in a mole, be sure to consult a dermatologist as soon as possible. By protecting your skin from the sun and performing regular self-exams, you can help prevent skin cancer and ensure your skin stays healthy.