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Beauty Marks
Definition:
Common skin growths that typically appear in flesh color, yellow, brown, blue-gray, or almost black, and randomly appear on the skin. They can be flat or raised, smooth or rough, and sometimes covered with hair. The size of moles varies: they can range from a small dot to about 2.5 cm in diameter. However, they are usually less than 1 cm and more frequently less than 6 mm. Moles arise as a result of a cluster of melanocyte cells, and develop from childhood, peaking in adolescence and up to about 60 years old. Almost everyone has a few moles; however, those who have more than 50 moles have a relatively increased risk of developing melanoma.
Internal and external causes:
Genetic predispositions, sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations.
How to reduce or eliminate:
CO2 Laser; surgical excision under local anesthesia.
Preventative steps to take:
Protect your skin from the sun (sun care, clothing); monitor any changes in moles by adopting the ABCDE method; have periodic examinations by a dermatologist.