Moles and skin tags are extremely common on the face and other parts of the body. They can be cosmetically embarrassing as well as cause problems when applying make-up, shaving or catching on clothing.

Moles, known medically as nevi, are clusters of pigmented cells that often appear as small, dark brown spots. However, moles can come in a range of colors and can develop virtually anywhere on your body.

Most moles are harmless, but in rare cases, moles may become cancerous.

Monitoring moles and other pigmented patches is an important step in detecting skin cancer, especially malignant melanoma. Not all melanomas develop from pre-existing moles, but many begin in or near a mole or other dark spot on the skin.

Several types of moles have a higher than average risk of becoming cancerous.

They include:

Large moles present at birth. Large moles that are present at birth are called congenital nevi or giant hairy nevi. These moles may increase your risk of malignant melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. In general, moles that are more than the size of a closed fist pose the greatest risk. Have your doctor examine any mole that was present at birth and is fist-sized or larger.

Moles that run in families. Moles that are larger than average — which is about 1/4 inch (6 millimeters), or the diameter of a pencil eraser — and irregular in shape are known as atypical (dysplastic) nevi. These moles tend to be hereditary. They're frequently described as looking like fried eggs because they usually have dark brown centers and lighter, uneven borders. Overall, they may look red or tan. If you have dysplastic nevi, you have a greater risk of developing malignant melanoma.

Numerous moles. If you have many moles — 50 or more — you are at a greater risk of developing melanoma

At the consultation we will perform a mole skin check to see if the mole or skin lesion should be sent for testing (histology) to rule out anything suspicious.

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