This image displays a normal nevus (mole). This small reddish-brown, slightly elevated lesion is a benign mole. A mole is seen on the fourth toe, next to a callus caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes. Note that the color and border of the mole are regular. Normal nevi (moles) are usually light brown and regular in color and shape. This image displays a normal nevus (mole). This image displays a large, but evenly colored and bordered, compound nevus. This image displays a skin-colored compound nevus with an irregular, folded surface.
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Mole (Nevus):
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Picture of Mole (Nevus): This image displays a normal nevus (mole). Divider line
This image displays a normal nevus (mole).
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Self-Care Guidelines
  • Protective measures, such as avoiding skin exposure to sunlight during peak sun hours (10 AM to 3 PM), wearing protective clothing, and applying high-SPF sunscreen, are essential for reducing exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) light.
  • Monthly self-examination of the skin is helpful to detect new lesions or changes in existing lesions.
  • Be sure your moles are not signs of skin cancer (melanoma). Remember the ABCDEs of melanoma lesions:
    A - Asymmetry: One half of the lesion does not mirror the other half.
    B - Border: The borders are irregular or vague (indistinct).
    C - Color: More than one color may be noted within the mole.
    D - Diameter: Size greater than 6 mm (roughly the size of a pencil eraser) may be concerning.
    E - Evolving: Notable changes in the lesion over time are suspicious signs for skin cancer.
When to Seek Medical Care
  • The occurrence of a new mole in an adult over the age of 50 years is unusual; if it occurs, see your doctor for evaluation.
  • People with multiple moles and unusual (atypical) moles should be examined by a dermatologist every 4–12 months depending on their past history and family history.
  • It may be difficult to tell an atypical mole from a normal mole, so seek medical evaluation if you are unsure about the nature of a mole, if you note changes within a mole, or if a mole becomes irritated or painful.
Last Modified: 15 Feb 2008

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