On the first Sunday of February of each year, Mole Day is celebrated in Peru, with the purpose of raising awareness among the population about the prevention and early detection of skin lesions that can affect the health of people, which are even more prone in this summer season due to the effect of solar radiation. This time, Dr. Carlos Sordo, dermatologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, clears up some recurring doubts about moles.

What happens when a mole appears on the palm of the hand or on the sole of the foot?

Moles located on the palms or soles generally correspond to the type of mole called junctional or junctional nevus. These tend to grow larger and can become malignant. Therefore, it is important to constantly evaluate them and in the presence of changes in their appearance, a specialist should be seen to examine it and, if necessary, perform a biopsy or indicate its removal.

When a mole grows, does it mean that it has become malignant?

Moles can appear in childhood and grow proportionally to the development of the person and in adulthood. In the case of women, this may be due to hormonal stimuli such as pregnancy. However, any change in moles should be evaluated and if they appear at age 40 too.

When making a wound on a mole can it become malignant?

Sharp traumatisms can injure the skin and therefore the moles found on it, changing their morphology. Therefore, you should see a dermatologist if this happens, to avoid the risk of infection or determine if there are changes in the mole not related to the wound.

Are hairy moles dangerous?

Hair moles can be acquired (appearing over time) or congenital (present from birth); the latter are usually larger. The bigger the mole, the greater the number of cells it has and the possibility of being altered.

It is important to remember that sunscreen should be applied daily, as its use helps prevent damage caused by the sun. However, it does not completely prevent radiation from penetrating the skin. The more exposure, the more damage. Therefore, in addition to reapplying the sunscreen every two hours, overexposure to the sun should be avoided (especially between 10 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon), seek shade and wear suitable clothing, hats and glasses.

Dr. Carlos Sordo
Dermatologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma