Conditions › Melanocytic naevus (mole)

Mole (Melanocytic Naevus) Checks and Removal in London

A melanocytic naevus, commonly known as a mole, is a benign growth on the skin made up of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). Moles are extremely common and can appear anywhere on the body, varying in size, shape, and colour. Most moles are harmless, but some may change over time and require medical assessment to exclude melanoma. At Skinhorizon Dermatology London, we provide expert mole checks, digital dermoscopy, and biopsy when needed, ensuring early detection and peace of mind.

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Melanocytic Naevus (Mole) at a Glance

What is a melanocytic naevus (mole)?	A common benign skin growth formed by clusters of pigment-producing melanocytes. Moles may be flat or raised, brown, black, or flesh-coloured.
What are the symptoms of a melanocytic naevus (mole)?	Most are asymptomatic, but may present as coloured spots, bumps, or patches on the skin. Warning signs include rapid growth, colour change, irregular borders, itching, or bleeding.
Who is most likely to develop melanocytic naevi (moles)?	Anyone can develop moles, but they are more numerous in people with fair skin, family history of multiple moles, or high sun exposure.
Why is it important to check melanocytic naevi (moles)?	Most are harmless, but some can develop into melanoma. Regular checks help identify suspicious changes early, improving treatment outcomes.
How is a melanocytic naevus (mole) treated?	Harmless moles usually need no treatment. Suspicious or bothersome moles may be removed by surgical excision or biopsy for analysis.
When should I see a doctor about a melanocytic naevus (mole)?	If a mole changes in size, colour, or shape, becomes itchy, painful, or starts to bleed, you should seek medical assessment promptly.
What complications can melanocytic naevi (moles) cause?	Most cause no problems. Rarely, a mole can develop into melanoma. Cosmetic or friction-related irritation may also occur.

Understanding melanocytic naevi (moles)

Melanocytic naevi, commonly referred to as moles, are collections of melanocytes (pigment cells) in the skin. They can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (appearing during childhood and adolescence). Moles may vary in size, colour, and elevation, and while most are benign, they require monitoring because malignant melanoma can sometimes develop within them.

Causes of melanocytic naevi

Moles develop due to localised proliferation of melanocytes. Factors influencing their development include:

Genetics: Family history influences number and type of moles.
Sun exposure: UV light can trigger new mole formation and changes in existing moles.
Hormones: Moles often darken or increase during puberty and pregnancy.
Skin type: Fair-skinned individuals typically have more naevi.

Melanocytic Naevus Symptoms and appearance

Typical features include:

Round or oval spots, flat or raised
Brown, black, or flesh-coloured
Stable in size and appearance over years
Occasionally hairy

Concerning changes follow the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving (new symptoms or changes).

Melanocytic Naevus Diagnosis

Most moles are diagnosed by clinical examination. Tools and tests may include:

Dermoscopy: A handheld device to examine pigment structure more closely.
Digital mole mapping: Photography to track changes over time.
Biopsy or excision: For suspicious moles, removal and histological analysis confirm diagnosis.

Melanocytic Naevus Treatment and management

Most melanocytic naevi need no treatment unless cosmetically bothersome or suspicious for melanoma. Management options include:

Observation: Regular self-checks and professional mole checks.
Surgical excision: Complete removal under local anaesthetic for diagnosis or prevention.
Shave removal: For raised, benign lesions that are cosmetically undesirable.

Living with moles

Most people live with moles without issue. Important measures include sun protection, self-monitoring, and early medical review of changes. Patients with many moles or a family history of melanoma may need more frequent skin checks.

Your first visit — what to expect

History: Review of skin changes, sun exposure, and family history of skin cancer.
Examination: Full skin and mole assessment using dermoscopy.
Investigations: Digital mole photography or biopsy if indicated.
Management plan: Tailored advice on mole monitoring and sun safety.
Follow-up: Recommended intervals for repeat checks depending on risk profile.

Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 22 August 2025

Concerned about a changing mole? Early detection of melanoma saves lives. Book a professional mole check at Skinhorizon Dermatology London today.

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Melanocytic Naevus (Mole) FAQs

Are all moles melanocytic naevi?

Yes. The medical term for a mole is melanocytic naevus. Most are harmless, but some may require monitoring for melanoma.

Can moles turn into melanoma?

Yes, though the risk is small. New or changing moles should be assessed promptly by a dermatologist.

How many moles are normal?

Most adults have between 10 and 40 moles. Having more than 50 increases melanoma risk and warrants regular skin checks.

Is mole removal painful?

No. Mole excision is usually done under local anaesthetic with minimal discomfort and quick recovery.

How often should I have my moles checked?

People with many moles, fair skin, or family history of melanoma should have yearly checks. Others should monitor and seek review if changes occur.

Disclaimer: The information above is provided for general education only and should not be taken as medical advice for any individual case. A consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is required to assess suitability, risks, and expected outcomes.

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