Theyre usually small, dark-colored spots that show up anywhere on your skin, and are often harmless.
But what does it mean if your mole grows hair?
A hairy mole might feel concerning, but is it dangerous?
Here, board-certified dermatologistPaul Curtiss, MD, FAADwithU.S.
First, what are moles, exactly?
Moles are simply a collection of cells on the skin, says Dr. Curtiss.
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The medical term for this cluster of dark spots is melanocytes.
Some of these moles may remain over time, while others may fade away.
Melanocytes are normally distributed throughout our skin, and impart its natural pigment.
Its normal to have several collections of moles which develop early on in life, says Dr. Curtiss.
Moles can literally grow anywhereon your arms, face, ears, or even your butt!
Read on for the signs to look out for.
Why do moles grow hair?
Moles can either be hairless or hairy, usually depending on where on the body they develop.
Are hairy moles a sign of cancer?
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First, dont panic: A hairy mole doesnt automatically mean its cancerous.
Generally, a hair within a normal-appearing mole is not a sign of cancer, says Dr. Curtiss.
Even so, its important to know whatskin cancer looks like.
They may suggest youget checked by a dermatologistto ensure your moles are benign.
Generally, a hair within a normal-appearing mole is not a sign of cancer.
Paul Curtiss, MD, FAAD, dermatologist
How do you get rid of hairy moles?
The hairs that grow out of moles can easily be shaved, waxed, or plucked.
(Just verify the method you use is gentle enough that it doesnt break the skin.)
And in order tocompletelyremove the mole itself, they have to be cut off, per Dr. Curtiss.
One method youshouldnttry to remove hairs from moles, though?
Laser treatment, Dr. Curtiss warns.
New moles after age 30 can be harmless, but likely should be checked out by your health-care provider.
Ultimately, most moles are harmless, but its better to be safe than sorry.
FAQ
Why do hairs grow thicker out of moles?
Why do weird hairs grow out of moles?
While not necessarily weird, there are differenttypesof hairs that can grow out of moles.
And each mole hair might look different from the other, depending on where its located on your body.
Is a hair growing out of a mole good luck?
This myth originated in China, with the premise that it will bring luck and fortune.
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