Skin Around Mole Doesn't Tan. Should I Be Concerned?

Question

I'm a 28 year old female mother of 4. Very active and healthy. I have moles all over my body some that are raised and most that are more like freckles. I have a mole on my back shoulder blade and the skin around it doesn't not tan at all. Should I be concerned about it and what would cause that to happen?

Andrew Kaufman, MD · Answer

First off, you should see a dermatologist to evaluate this pigmented lesion that is different from the rest. We tell people to look for the ABCDs of skin cancer, but now its better to include E (i.e. ABCDEs) for "evolving" or changing. Apparently, this pigmented lesion is acting differently from the other pigmented lesions and/or differently from how it used to act. So see a dermatologist and have the pigmented lesion evaluated.

	Second, you shouldn't be trying to "tan." A tan is the body's attempt to defend itself from further ultraviolet injury. Just like a sunburn, tanning leads to premature aging (i.e. wrinkles, blotchy pigmentation, aged appearance) and to skin cancers. So start using sunscreen on a regular basis (broad spectrum, SPF greater than 30), wear clothing that protects you from ultaviolet damage, seek shade whenever possible and teach your kids sun protective habits. By protecting them now you will decrease their chance of skin cancer in young adulthood and later in life. Good luck.

Mitchell Schwartz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

What you are describing is most likely a "halo nevus". To be safe, you should be carefully evaluated by a board certified dermatologist. Please use the ABCDE's as your guide for when to be concerned about moles: A for Asymmetry; B for Irregular Borders; C for Black or uneven Colors; D for diameter greater than a pencil eraser; and E for a growth that is Evolving or changing. If necessary, it is an extremely simple five minute procedure for a dermatologist to remove the mole using either a "punch" or a "shave" biopsy which typically leaves a minimal scar. The mole can then be checked microscopically for reassurance.

Skin Around Mole Doesn't Tan. Should I Be Concerned?

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Skin Around Mole Doesn't Tan. Should I Be Concerned?

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Everything you need to know about Mole Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.