Moles or nevi are clusters of dark pigmented skin cells that can appear in a variety of colors and locations on the body.   While many moles are harmless, moles can be an important part of cancer detection as many moles are near or the center of malignant melanoma or other forms of skin condition cancers.  Moles are often confuder with skin tags.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests using the ABCDE method of monitoring moles in regard to cancer detection.  A skin self exam for signs of melanoma should include the following according to the AAD :

A – Asymmetry: The mole that has one half different from the other should prompt medical attention
B - Borders:  If the border of the mole is oddly shaped, irregular or indistinct. 
C - Color:  Color can range from tan, brown, red or dark brown. 
 D – Diameter:  Melanoma moles are usually larger than 6 mm (the size of pencil eraser) although some are detected earlier in smaller size
E – Evolving:  Moles that appear to be changing in size, shape, border or color should prompt immediate attention. 

Medical Treatment for Moles

Surgical extraction is the most common treatment for moles that are indicative of skin cancer, are overly large or cause discomfort for the patient.  The mole may be cut out and the skin stitched closed or the mole may be scraped away surgically.  Do not ever attempt to cut away a mole at home on your own.  The results can be disfiguring and infection is likely to occur. 

Prevention of Moles

Skin cancer can be deadly and the best treatment is good prevention.  Always wear a sun screen when outdoors with ample protection.  Use a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 with broad spectrum coverage to address both ultraviolet A and B rays.  Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming.  Wear protective clothing including hats, sun glasses and long sleeve where ever possible. 

Be careful of reflective surfaces such as water, snow and sand as the can reflect the damaging rays of the sun increasing sunburn damage.  Avoid tanning beds and over exposure to the sun. 

Home Remedies for Moles

If your doctor has determined that the mole is harmless there are some home remedies that are popular to get rid of moles including: 

- Using a poultice of ground coriander seeds to rid your self of moles
- Use the juice or sour apples or the juice of onions to get rid of the mole
- Make a paste of caster oil and baking soda to apply to the mole
- Potassium can be useful to get rid of moles, apple cider vinegar is a good source of potassium
- Tape a slice of garlic on the mole and leave on overnight
- Use banana peel with the pulp side down, taped on the mole to get rid of it – this may take several weeks to work.

Moles can be important in detecting skin cancer; do not hesitate to seek prompt medical attention for moles.  It is always better to err on the side of caution.