Mole that itches: what to do?

Moles are small pigmented spots that appear on the skin. They result from a localised accumulation of melanocytes, the cells responsible for the production of melanin, the pigment that colours the skin. Moles can be present from birth - these are then referred to as congenital nevi - but, most often, they appear during childhood or adolescence. Most nevi are benign but they still need to be closely monitored to ensure they do not transform into melanoma.

Moles typically do not cause itching.

That's why when it is the case, it can be a cause for concern. However, in most instances, this sensation is caused by a irritation due to repeated friction, such as those generated by clothing (collars, belts, straps...). These areas of friction can irritate the skin, including where the mole is located. Furthermore, a skin dryness, common in winter or following the use of overly harsh products, can also cause itching and redness around the mole. In these situations, it's not the mole itself that is responsible for the itching, but rather an irritation of the surrounding skin.

It can also occur that a mole becomes the site of local inflammation, for instance due to a insect bite. It's an unfortunate coincidence that the irritation manifests precisely at this location. Besides itching, the area around the mole may turn red and swollen, which can cause concern. The inflammation usually subsides on its own within a few days. In the meantime, it's crucial not to scratch or handle the lesion, to prevent exacerbating it. However, if the itching or irritation persists and if the mole exhibits unusual changes, such as a shift in colour, size or texture, this could be a sign of a malignant transformation.