Moles are the most common growths in humans. They can be present at birth or acquired throughout life. The incidence of nevi increases throughout childhood, peaks in adolescence, and typically wanes in older adulthood. Nevi evolve and change throughout childhood and during pregnancy.

Moles can appear anywhere on the skin in various sizes and shapes. They are made up of melanocytes, skin cells that produce melanin (dark pigment).

Moles typically evolve and grow as we do. They generally begin as flat brown spots, similar to a freckle, that, over time, may grow larger, become elevated, and grow hairs.

Certain types of moles carry a risk for developing malignant melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Sunburns, particularly in childhood, can increase

the risk.

Also known as “Seborrheic verruca”, are common skin growths. These benign (non-cancerous) growths can occur almost anywhere on the skin. Some people get just one while others develop many.They appear in various colors, from light tan to black. They are round or oval, feel flat or slightly elevated and range in size from very small to very large. They can resemble warts, though they have no viral origins. They can also resemble melanoma skin cancer, though they are unrelated to melanoma as well. Because only the top layers of the epidermis are involved.