Why Do I Suddenly Have Moles?

Moles are a common feature on our skin, but spotting a new one can often spark curiosity or even a bit of worry. What causes these sudden appearances, and should you be concerned?

Many moles are harmless, but it's important to understand why they form and when they may require medical attention. In this article, we explore the nature of moles, why they suddenly appear, and how to monitor them.

What Are Moles?

Moles, or nevi, are clusters of pigmented skin cells called melanocytes. These growths can arise anywhere on the body and range in colour from light brown to black. They may be flat or raised, smooth or uneven, and may even have hair growing from them.

Moles are incredibly common, with most people having between 10 and 40 moles on their body. While many moles are present from birth or develop in childhood, some appear later in life. These new moles can pop up for various reasons.

What Causes Moles to Appear Suddenly?

Moles can appear suddenly due to a combination of factors that influence your skin’s behaviour. While most moles develop gradually, certain triggers can accelerate their formation, making them seem like they’ve appeared out of nowhere.

Genetics and Hereditary Factors

Genetics plays a critical role in determining not only the number of moles you develop but also their distribution on your body. A 2019 study published in Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research analysed 3,200 twins and revealed that genetics significantly affects both mole count and location. For example:

• In women, the highest genetic influence on mole count was found on the lower limbs (69%), while the back and abdomen showed a lower genetic influence (26%).
• The findings suggest that sex-specific genetic factors—not just sun exposure—are responsible for the higher prevalence of moles on women’s lower limbs.

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure is one of the most significant environmental factors contributing to mole formation and the development of melanoma. A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (2004) investigated melanoma risk factors in families both with and without a history of melanoma. It found that:

• sun exposure increases melanoma risk by more than five times
• sunburn significantly amplifies melanoma risk, particularly in individuals carrying melanoma-predisposing genes like CDKN2A

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in hormone levels can trigger the appearance of new moles. It is common during:

• Puberty: Hormonal surges can lead to changes in the skin, including the formation of new moles. A study published in JAMA Dermatology found that the total mole count by ages 13-14 may be a strong predictor of mole development by ages 16-17. Adolescents with a higher number of moles in early adolescence were more likely to develop additional and larger moles in later teenage years.
• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone can stimulate melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation. This stimulation may lead to new moles or the darkening of existing ones. 
• Menopause: Like with pregnancy, hormonal shifts during menopause can also affect mole development.

Ageing

Our skin undergoes various changes as we age, including developing new moles. Some moles may form due to cumulative sun exposure or natural cellular changes with ageing. However, it should be noted that the average number of moles peaks at 15-40 in the third or fourth decade of life, declining to an average of four in later years.

When Are New Moles a Cause for Concern?

While most moles are benign, some may warrant closer inspection. Be aware of the characteristics of normal versus atypical moles and recognise warning signs.

Characteristics of Normal vs. Atypical Moles

• Normal moles: Generally uniform in colour, round or oval, and smaller than a pencil eraser (about 6mm). They typically remain stable over time.
• Atypical moles: Also called dysplastic nevi, these are larger than normal moles, irregular in shape, and may have uneven colour or borders. Atypical moles can sometimes develop into melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

Signs of Potentially Dangerous Moles

The ABCDE guideline is helpful for identifying moles that may be cancerous:

• Asymmetry: A side of the mole does not match the other.
• Border: The edges are irregular, blurred, or scalloped.
• Colour: The mole has varying shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
• Diameter: The mole extends beyond 6 mm.
• Evolving: The mole evolves in size, shape, or colour over time.

If you notice any of these signs or have symptoms like itching, bleeding, or tenderness in a mole, consult a doctor immediately.

How to Monitor New Moles

Here's how you can monitor a new mole effectively:

1. Track changes: Take photographs of your mole to monitor its appearance over time.
2. Use the ABCDE rule: Regularly evaluate your moles for any warning signs, as shared in the steps above.
3. Protect your skin: Minimise sun exposure and use sunscreen to reduce UV-related skin damage.

When to Consult a Professional

You should consult a doctor if you notice any of the following, as per the ABCDE rule and other concerning factors:

• A new mole that appears unusual or atypical.
• Changes in an existing mole's size, shape, colour, or texture.
• Symptoms like itching, bleeding, or pain in a mole.
• A family background of skin cancer, especially melanoma.

Mole Removal in Singapore

Understanding why moles appear and how to monitor them empowers you to take charge of your skin health. By staying vigilant and seeking professional advice, you can address concerns early and ensure your skin remains healthy.

If you are considering mole removal for cosmetic or medical reasons, 1Aesthetics offers professional mole removal services in Singapore with a focus on precision and patient care.

A common concern among patients is the possibility of mole recurrence or scarring after removal. To minimise these risks and achieve the best outcome, it is crucial to ensure that all abnormal mole tissue is removed while protecting the surrounding skin. At 1Aesthetics, Dr Wan uses technologies that provide control over tissue damage, such as:

• Ultrapulse CO2 lasers and high-frequency radiofrequency: These tools allow precise ablation and coagulation, targeting only the mole cells while preserving healthy tissues.
• Pigment lasers: Specifically designed to damage pigmented mole cells, reducing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
• Combination treatments: By leveraging multiple lasers, this approach addresses the limitations of each modality, resulting in reduced recurrence and scarring risks. This method is particularly effective for moles that would traditionally require surgical removal.

Take the first step towards healthier, blemish-free skin—book a mole removal appointment with 1Aesthetics today.