Ten things you should know about moles

Simple facts about moles that are worth knowing:

1. A mole is a collection of pigment cells known as melanocytes.
2. Moles are extremely common.
3. The medical name for a mole is naevus.
4. Moles that are present at birth or soon after are called congenital moles.
5. Most moles develop where skin has been exposed to sunlight; they can also appear in places that never see the sun.
6. The more moles you have, the higher your risk of melanoma.
7. Melanoma develops when our skin produces abnormal melanocytes.
8. Check your skin regularly; the change of seasons is a good way to remind yourself.
9. New, changing or irritated moles should be checked by your doctor as soon as possible. Look for changes in size, shape and colour.
10. Harmless moles can be raised or flat. They are normally brown or black, but can also be pink, red or even blue. Harmless moles do not normally change.