Why Do Skin Moles Increase?

When the skin's pigment cells do not grow naturally, and develop into clusters, what arises in this space is called "naevi," typically called a mole. Moles vary in size and can be raised or flat, light or dark colored. Most people have moles, and most moles are of no concern.

There are two basic types of skin moles, categorized as typical and atypical 1. As we age, we may see an increase in mole growth. There are several reasons why skin moles increase 1.

Increase of Typical Moles

Typical type moles can appear at any time during your life 2. It is not uncommon for moles to develop during childhood. One reason that skin moles may increase is the body's response to your hormone level; it is common for skin moles to increase when the body is going through natural hormonal changes 1. Some of the hormone changes that may cause mole increase are adolescence, pregnancy and menopause.

Medication/Medical Conditions

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A person who is taking medication that contains hormones is also at risk for typical moles to appear and increase. Increase in mole growth can occur at any time 2. You may see an increase in mole growth years after you have stopped taking the medication that contained hormones.

Those who have a medical condition, such as thyroid problems, are also at risk for skin moles to grow and increase 1. The thyroid produces hormones. When the thyroid is not functioning properly it causes a hormonal imbalance, which can cause new mole growth as well as an increase in typical mole growth.

Sun Exposure

For all people, sun exposure can cause skin moles to increase 1. This is especially true for the fair skinned who may see an increase in moles at a later age due to unprotected sun exposure at a younger age 2. Once a skin mole has formed it will remain unless surgically removed.

Atypical Moles

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An increase in skin moles is typical if you have family members with a tendency to grow atypical skin moles, irregular skin moles or a history of melanoma 1. This does not mean the skin moles that appear on your body are cancerous, but they should be checked by a doctor to determine if removal is necessary to prevent future problems 1.

Because atypical skin moles can be hereditary, it is important for those with skin mole tendencies in their families to avoid sunlight 1. Sunlight will not only increase the chance for moles to form but can also accelerate the development of an atypical mole. People who have inherited this risk should take extra precautions when outside and monitor any changes they may see in a mole.

Mole Increase Prevention

Moles vary in size from small dots that may look like a freckle to growths of more than an inch in diameter. You may see an increase in skin moles as you age 1. Those typical moles can increase in number at any time due to sun exposure that the skin received at a younger age 12. The best way to prevent an increase in skin moles is to avoid sunlight at a young age and use a high SPF sunscreen at all times when outdoors 12.