Moles
Most moles are completely harmless, but a small number are not. Knowing which is which requires a trained eye, and it's one of the most important things a dermatologist does.
Moles are among the most common skin growths, and the vast majority are benign melanocytic nevi that never cause any problem. But melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, often begins in or near a mole, and catching it early makes a huge difference. Regular mole monitoring by a board-certified dermatologist is one of the most effective preventive health steps you can take. At Element Dermatology in Sartell, MN, Dr. LaBine and team brings 30+ years of clinical experience to every mole evaluation.
About This Condition
When to Have a Mole Checked
Moles are clusters of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) that have grown together in one spot rather than dispersing evenly through the skin. Most develop in childhood and adolescence, and the average adult has between 10 and 40 moles. They can be flat or raised, uniformly pigmented or slightly variable, smooth or textured. Having a mole or ten is completely normal, but you should still keep your eye on them.
The ABCDE criteria are the standard framework for identifying moles that warrant evaluation. Any mole that checks one or more of these boxes deserves a professional assessment by someone trained to distinguish a benign mole from a concerning one.
The ABCDE warning signs:
Asymmetry
When one half of your mole doesn't match the other, if you were to draw an imaginary line down the middle.
Border & Color
Border: A mole’s edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred rather than smooth and well-defined.
Color: There are multiple shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue within the same mole.
Diameter
If your mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), though some melanomas are smaller, and many moles are much larger.
Evolution
Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation, or any new symptom like bleeding, itching, or crusting.
Evolution (the E in ABCDE) is often the most clinically important signal, but any mole that has changed is always worth having evaluated, even if it doesn't meet the other criteria. Most patients who come in about a changed mole leave reassured. Occasionally, however, we identify something that needs addressing. The small investment of a check-in appointment is worthwhile for the peace of mind and protection it provides.
Targeted Treatments
How We Evaluate and Treat Moles
Mole Evaluation and Skin Exam
Our providers perform a thorough assessment of any moles using visual analysis and clinical judgment. For new patients or those requesting a full check, a complete head-to-toe skin examination covers all moles and pigmented lesions on the body.
Biopsy
When a mole needs closer inspection, Dr. LaBine performs a shave or excisional biopsy under local anesthetic. The specimen is then sent to our board-certified dermatopathology lab partners for analysis. The lap communicates the results to us as soon as they have them, and out team will communicate the findings and any recommended next steps directly with you.
Mole Removal
Mole removal is performed under local anesthetic with careful technique to minimize scarring. The method (shave excision, punch excision, or surgical excision) is chosen based on the mole's characteristics and location. Removed tissue is always sent for pathological analysis to confirm the diagnosis.
Schedule Your Mole Consultation Today
Frequently Asked Questions About Moles
How do I know if a mole is dangerous?
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The ABCDE criteria on this page give you a useful starting framework, but the honest answer is that you often can't tell just by looking. Some early melanomas look quite ordinary, and some unusual-looking moles are completely benign, which is why professional evaluation exists. If you have a mole you're uncertain about, the right move is to book an appointment rather than try to make the call yourself. The cost of a check-up is nothing compared to the cost of missing something.
How long does it take to get biopsy results?
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Biopsy results from our dermatopathology lab partners generally come back within five to ten business days. Our clinical team reviews every result personally and contacts patients directly to discuss the findings. If a result is urgent or requires immediate action, we prioritize communication accordingly. You won't be left waiting and wondering. We'll reach out as soon as we have your results.
Can I have a mole removed for cosmetic reasons?
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Yes. If a mole bothers you cosmetically, catches on clothing, or is in a location that makes you self-conscious, removal is a reasonable and valid choice. Our providers will assess the mole before removal to confirm it's appropriate for the planned technique, and all removed tissue is sent for pathological analysis regardless of the indication. Most insurance plans do not cover cosmetic mole removal, and we'll be upfront about costs beforehand.
How often should I have my moles checked?
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For most adults, once a year is a good baseline. Patients with a personal or family history of melanoma, a history of heavy sun exposure, a large number of moles, or any moles with atypical features may benefit from checks every six months. Between professional appointments, a monthly self-examination in good light helps you notice changes early. We'll give you a recommendation based on your personal risk factors at your first appointment.