Beauty marks, also known as naevi, are small pigmented spots that form on the skin. They can appear on any area of the body, either alone or in large numbers. Beauty marks are the result of a localised overproduction of melanin. The melanocytes concentrate in one spot and the melanin produced forms the beauty mark. This disruption in the melanogenesis process can be triggered by genetic factors, hormonal factors, or even overexposure to the sun's rays. The arrangement of different beauty marks on the body is unique to each individual and can thus be compared to an identity card.
While the majority of moles resemble discreet spots on the skin, some are large or raised and can be considered bothersome and unsightly. Today, there are several "home" remedies promising to make them disappear. Among these, there is the application of a poultice made from castor oil and sodium bicarbonate. However, this technique has not been the subject of any scientific study and is not based on any solid evidence. Today, only dermatologists and aesthetic doctors are able to remove a mole, either by surgical excision under local anaesthesia or with a CO2 laser.
Moles: not to be overlooked.
While the majority of moles are benign, some can develop into melanomas. That's why it's crucial to monitor the evolution of your moles, in order to report any changes to your dermatologist. While everyone is at risk, certain individuals are particularly vulnerable. These include people with fair skin, eyes or hair, freckles, numerous moles, a family history of skin cancer, or those who have difficulty tanning.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, individuals with 10 or more atypical moles are 12 times more likely to develop melanoma.
To mitigate risks, it is recommended to have your moles checked by a dermatologist annually. Between consultations, it is beneficial to monitor certain warning signs of an atypical mole, particularly using the ABCDE method, as outlined in the table below.