A summer vacation means plenty of fun in the sun and water, but all that outdoor time can lead to new moles on your child’s skin.
Most babies are born without moles, known as “nevi” by dermatologists, but new ones can appear as they grow. While many children’s moles are harmless, if they have a high number of moles or moles that are irregularly shaped or unusually colored, they have an increased risk of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.
Keep reading to learn how to protect your child’s skin health and when to seek expert care from a board-certified dermatologist.
Normal Mole Development in Children
When Do Children Develop Moles
Most moles typically develop during childhood and adolescence, with some appearing at or shortly after birth, and others may appear later in childhood.
Typical Appearance of Childhood Moles
Pediatric moles are typically small, round, smooth, and evenly colored. Congenital and acquired moles can grow along with your child and their characteristics stay consistent for years.
Expected Changes During Growth
It is common for childhood moles to get slightly darker, larger, or become raised as they grow older. These gradual changes are normal.
However, signs of rapid growth, uneven edges, or color variations should be evaluated by a physician.
Different Types of Childhood Moles
Congenital Moles
Moles appearing at birth or that develop during the first two years of life are called congenital moles and occur in about 1% of newborns. While most are small, some can be very large and tend to grow along with your child.
Most congenital moles do not need treatment. However, almost all childhood moles carry a very small risk of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Melanoma is very rarely found in a congenital mole.
Acquired Moles
Acquired moles are pigmented skin lesions that affect up to 90% of the population and develop later in childhood or adolescence.
They can be caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, or genetics. They are typically small, round, or oval lesions that are uniform in color on the face, neck, arms, and back.
While most acquired moles are harmless, it’s important to check them regularly for changes in size, color, or shape.
Atypical Moles
Atypical moles are larger, benign (noncancerous), and have an unusual appearance, potentially resembling melanoma.
While not cancerous themselves, individuals with atypical moles have an increased risk of developing melanoma.
Warning Signs in Children’s Moles
The ABCDE Method for Children
The ABCDE method for children is an easy-to-remember guideline that helps individuals recognize potential warning signs and schedule a professional skin exam for diagnosis and treatment.
The ABCDE self-assessment should be completed once a month. Here’s how to do it:
- A – Asymmetry
If one half of a mole looks different from the other, this could be cause for concern. Noncancerous moles are usually symmetrical. - B – Border irregularity
Suspicious moles may have irregular, notched, or blurred borders. Noncancerous moles are typically smooth and well-defined. - C – Color
Any moles or spots with different shades of black, brown, tan, red, or white should be examined by a dermatologist or physician. Noncancerous moles are typically uniform in color. - D – Diameter
Pay close attention to any moles larger than a pencil eraser (6mm) or moles that change in size. Any moles that change size should be examined by a dermatologist or physician. - E – Evolution
Noting changes in size, color, shape, or elevation over time is essential. Any moles that change their appearance should be examined by a dermatologist or physician right away to avoid complications.
Red Flags for Pediatric Moles
Melanoma is rare in children. However, it causes about 75% of skin cancer deaths. Prevention is essential for lowering your child’s risk of the disease.
Get your child’s skin checked if you have any concerns or if there is a family history of melanoma or other skin cancers. When caught early, melanoma is highly treatable.
Changes that need immediate attention include:
- A mole that is growing or changing quickly.
- A mole that looks different from your child’s other moles.
- A mole that is dome-shaped, has a jagged border, or contains different colors.
- A mole that bleeds without a reason or looks like an open sore.
If your child has 50 or more moles, they should be under the care of a board-certified dermatologist as their risk for melanoma is higher.
Age-Specific Mole Guidance
Infants (0-2 years)
Keep an eye on any childhood moles that appear to be changing quickly. If a mole grows rapidly, darkens, or looks unusual, check in with your pediatrician as soon as possible.
Young Children (3-6 years)
New moles may appear, and that’s normal. Keep an eye on any that seem different (e.g., uneven borders or changing colors). Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply as directed on the bottle.
School-Age Children (7-12 years)
Kids love spending time outdoors, so you may notice more moles over time, and that’s okay. Stay vigilant and watch for any that look irregular or start changing.
Regular skin checks at home can help catch anything early. Encourage your child to use sunscreen daily to protect their skin, and model good skin protection habits.
Adolescents (13-18 years)
Teens may notice new moles, especially if they spend time in the sun. Encourage them to check their skin and speak up about any moles that look different from the rest.
A yearly skin check with a doctor is a good habit to start now. Continue encouraging them to use a daily sunscreen for skin health and protection.
How to Monitor Your Child’s Skin
Creating a Skin Map
Take note of where your child’s moles and birthmarks are. A simple sketch can help you track changes over time.
Monthly Check Routine
Once a month, take a few minutes to check your child’s skin. Take note of new moles or any that have changed in size, shape, or color.
Photographic Documentation
Take clear photos of larger, unusual, or worrisome moles at regular intervals. Always use the same lighting and angles. If you notice any changes, schedule a skin exam with a board-certified dermatologist or physician right away.
Sun Protection and Mole Prevention
Childhood Sun Safety Guidelines
Infants younger than six months should avoid direct sunlight. Sunscreen is not recommended.
Get your child into the habit of wearing a hat and sunglasses when they spend time outdoors. Also, do your best to keep them in the shade during peak hours (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
Sunscreen for Different Ages
Older babies and children should use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant, and mineral-based sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and reapply as directed on the bottle. Get them into the habit of wearing hats and sunglasses when spending time outdoors.
Protective Clothing and Habits
Make sun safety a priority early on by modeling and encouraging good habits like wearing long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking swimwear that protects their young, delicate, and beautiful skin.
When to Consult a Dermatologist
Routine Skin Checks
Ask your pediatrician to check your child’s skin at every annual wellness visit. This is especially important if they have several moles or if there is a family history of skin cancer.
You may also consider regular dermatologist visits.
Urgent Consultation Situations
If you notice a mole that’s growing quickly, changing color, has uneven borders, or your child complains of itching or bleeding, seek immediate medical attention.
Always trust your instincts.
Pediatric Dermatology Specialists
If your child has unusual or concerning moles, the board-certified pediatric dermatology specialists at Advanced Dermatology, P.C., can provide expert care and guidance.