Moles

Moles are growths on the skin that are usually brown or black. Moles can appear anywhere on the skin, either alone or in groups.

Most moles appear in early childhood and during the first 20 years of a person's life. Some moles may not appear until later in life. It is normal to have between 10-40 moles by adulthood.

As the years pass, moles usually change slowly, becoming raised and/or changing in color. Often, hairs develop on the mole. However, moles may not change at all, while others may slowly disappear over time. Moles are usually benign but they sometimes can be an indication of skin cancer. Read more about moles, freckles, and skin tags.