Get To Know Your Moles

Make sure you’re clued up on what’s normal and healthy when it comes to moles, with our handy guide.

- Larissa Chapman

THOSE BROWNISH, circular spots, which can be at or raised, may be found almost anywhere on your body. When they appear on your face, moles are often affectionately referred to as ‘beauty spots’ and are said to enhance attractiveness. Just think of Marilyn Monroe and Cindy Crawford! However, aesthetics aside, moles are more than just skin deep. With cases of melanoma skin cancer among women in the UK increasing by 35 per cent over the past decade*, it’s important to know what’s normal and what’s not. And it’s especially important at this time of the year when you’re (hopefully!) spending plenty of time enjoying the sunshine.

WHAT ARE THEY?

‘Moles are known as naevi – an overgrowth of healthy melanocytes, which are the cells that produce melanin,’ says skin health expert Dr Andrew Birnie. ‘We’re not sure exactly why they form; many are preprogrammed as part of our genetic code but others may form as a result of UV exposure.