What it is
A mole is a common skin growth made of pigment-producing cells. People can have moles from childhood or notice new ones later in life. Many stay the same for years and cause no trouble.
Some spots look like moles but are something else, such as sun-related rough patches (actinic keratosis), other benign growths, or even a 'wart' that may not be one. You can't reliably tell these apart by sight, and that's true for most people, not just you.
Skin cancer, including melanoma, can sometimes look like a mole or appear in or near one. That is why a clinician's exam matters more than guessing, and why changes are worth taking seriously without panic.
How it’s traditionally been approached
A common general guide is the ABCDEs of melanoma: asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color, a larger or growing diameter, and evolving or changing. This is only an awareness tool, never a way to diagnose yourself.
Beyond those signs, a spot that is bleeding, itching, crusting, tender, or not healing is traditionally a reason to book a skin check. A mole that looks different from your others is also often mentioned.
Many people also schedule routine full-body skin checks, especially if they've had a lot of sun exposure, a history of sunburns, or a family history of skin cancer. Whether and how often is a decision to make with a clinician. Moles should not be cut, burned, or dug out at home, and over-the-counter wart products aren't meant for moles.
How the right provider may help
A dermatologist is a licensed clinician who specializes in skin. At a visit they generally ask when you first noticed the spot, whether it has changed, and about your sun exposure and family history. They then look closely at the area, often using a handheld magnifying light called a dermatoscope.
Depending on what they see, a provider may suggest keeping an eye on the spot, taking a photo for comparison, or taking a small sample (a biopsy) to be examined in a lab. Which of these, if any, is appropriate is the clinician's decision after the exam. Results and next steps vary from person to person.
It can help to bring a list of spots you're worried about, note any changes you've seen, and ask questions like: 'Is this one worth monitoring?', 'How often should I have skin checks?', and 'What should I watch for between visits?' Providers.plus lists licensed providers if you're looking for one.
The whole-person view
Body, mind, and stress affect each other. Worrying about a spot can make it hard to sleep or focus, while avoiding an appointment out of fear can keep the worry going. Many people feel embarrassed or anxious about skin checks, and that is very common.
Gentle practices that help you feel settled in your body may support you while you wait for an appointment or results. Somatic Experiences offers body-based support, and Therapists.plus connects people with talk therapy if health worries feel overwhelming. These are supportive options, not substitutes for a skin exam.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: anxiety panic and ocd →
Keep in mind
- A mole or growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist for skin cancer. Do not self-treat it.
- Only a licensed clinician can decide whether a spot is harmless or needs more attention, and no web page can diagnose you.
- Skin cancer care should be guided by licensed professionals. For emergencies call 911; if you are in crisis or feeling overwhelmed, call or text 988.
- Never cut, burn, or dig out a mole or growth at home, and don't use over-the-counter wart products on moles or on facial or genital growths.
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Keep exploring
Moles, actinic keratosis & skin cancer checks
Frequently asked questions
When should I see a dermatologist about a mole?
See a dermatologist when a mole is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing, or when it looks different from your other moles. You should also go if a spot simply worries you. Only a licensed clinician can tell you what a spot is.
What are the ABCDEs of melanoma?
The ABCDEs are a general awareness guide: asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter, and evolving or changing. They are not a self-diagnosis tool. If a spot raises any of these concerns, have a dermatologist look at it.
Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist for a mole?
It depends on your insurance and the provider, so check with your plan and the office. Some people start with a primary care clinician who can examine the spot or refer them. Calling the dermatology office ahead of time can clear this up.
What happens at a skin check for a mole?
A provider generally asks about the spot and your history, then examines your skin, often with a dermatoscope. They may suggest monitoring it or taking a small sample for lab testing. What happens depends on the clinician's evaluation.
Is it okay to remove a mole at home?
No. Cutting, burning, or digging out a mole at home is not advised, and it could hide changes a clinician needs to see. Over-the-counter wart products are not meant for moles. Ask a licensed provider about safe options.
Could a mole be mistaken for a wart?
Yes, it's possible, since some growths look alike and are hard to tell apart without an exam. Treating an unidentified spot yourself can delay a proper check. A dermatologist can examine it and say what it is.
Educational resource. Warts.ai shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.