Beauty Article

Two of the most common skin conditions are the presence of moles and dermatitis. Moles can have more serious consequences than the irritation of dermatitis.

Moles occur when the cells in the skin that give it its pigment
called melanocytes
grow in clusters. These cells normally grow throughout the skin
but when too many grow in the same place a mole occurs. Most moles appear before the age of 25
but some may appear much later. Moles can remain static or change over time. Although most are not dangerous
some can be malignant and lead to melanoma. Any mole that oozes or becomes painful or sensitive should be checked out by a dermatologist. Moles that suddenly appear after the age of 25 or begin to change or grow should also be evaluated.

When evaluating your moles
keep the following in mind. Moles should be round. If your moles are asymmetrical
or irregular in shape
have it evaluated. If you find a mole that is larger than ผ”
mention it to your doctor or dermatologist. If you find that your mole has an irregular or jagged edge
or is not all one color
have your doctor look at it. Finally
any mole that is red or blue may be cause for concern.

Treating moles is not difficult. If a mole is embarrassing
or becomes irritated under your clothing
you may ask your doctor to remove it. Moles can be frozen with a chemical
after which they dry up and fall off. Other moles can be simply cut off of the skin. Often
doctors will remove entire moles that seem suspicious and test the tissue for cancer. If any malignancy is found
they may cut out a slightly larger area of skin and then suture the site closed.

Check your skin regularly for changes in your moles. If any seem suspicious
or any changes have occurred
let your doctor know. Preventing a problem is as easy as going on “mole patrol.”