Can a mole on scalp be cancerous? What are the signs of a cancerous mole on scalp? Acquaint yourself with crucial information regarding moles on scalp. Learn about different types of moles on your scalp, including white, red, pink and black moles. Find out why the moles on scalp may become swollen, painful and itchy or even start bleeding. Furthermore, explore the meaning evolving moles or new moles developing on your scalp. We have also included very descriptive pictures in this post to enable you to get proper information about moles on scalp.
Mole on Scalp – Appearance, Colour, Size, shape, Texture
What is a mole? “Moles are small colored spots on the skin made up of cells called melanocytes, which produce the color (pigment) in your skin” [NHS Choices]. The common colors of moles on scalp are red, pink, white and black. However, some of them may be flesh, gray or even green in color. Whereas some of the moles on scalp may be flashy, others may be crusty, or scaly and flakey.
Moles on scalp normally develop later after birth. However, they may be present on a baby at birth as birthmarks. The moles usually develop on children, starting from toddlers to teenagers. However, they can develop on adults’ scalp, both male and female, later in life. Moles on scalp usually develop on top of the head, on the right or left side of the head, on the back of the head or above the ear.
Moles on scalp vary in size from small moles of less than 1.5 mm diameter, medium moles of diameter between 1.5 to 2 mm, to giant moles of diameter greater than 2 mm. Although most of them are flat moles, others may be raised moles (moles which are elevated above the skin).
Mole on Scalp Pictures (images)
We have inserted many excellent pictures of moles on scalp throughout the post at relevant sections. The pictures are specially selected to offer the best illustrative aid. Therefore, the images will enable you to get a deep insight into moles on scalp and hence be well informed about them. Bear in mind that, proper understanding about moles is vital given the impending danger and loss they may plunge you into.
Significance of Mole on Scalp
When moles develop on your scalp, it should not cause a lot of concern. However, the appearance of the moles is a sign that there is some imbalance in your body. You should, therefore, seek medical attention to determine the underlying health issue that causes the moles.
Generally, a mole on scalp is usually benign. This means they are not cancerous and hence not dangerous to your health. Normally, a mole which is non-cancerous is said to be a ‘normal mole’ or a ‘typical mole’. However, a mole on scalp may exhibit characteristics which are similar to those of cancerous moles but they are not actually cancerous. Such a mole is referred to as an atypical mole, dysplastic mole or abnormal mole. Cancerous moles are medically known as melanoma or malignant melanoma. Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, including scalp skin cancer.
Since an atypical mole is not cancerous, it should not be a cause for worry. Nevertheless, it should be examined by a dermatologist once spotted to rule out malignant melanoma. Considering that these characteristics resemble those of a cancerous mole it should be treated as a suspicious mole. The dermatologist may examine it or carry out a mole biopsy to establish whether it the cancerous or simply an atypical mole.
Red Mole on Scalp
Red moles are also known as Cherry angiomas. Technically, they may also be referred to as Nevus Rubi or Nevus Cherry. Statistically, they are the most common type of growths on human skin. Generally, red moles can develop on any part of your skin. However, they are common on scalp, especially. Besides, they can also develop on the back, chest or neck, and rarely in the armpit or on genitals. Furthermore, red moles tend to appear more on people with fair skin and those in their middle age.
Red moles on scalp may appear suddenly. They usually consist of a raised red spot of the skin with several blood vessels. It is this concentration of blood vessels that accounts for their red color. Their sizes range from approximately 1 mm to 4 mm. Although rarely, red moles on scalp may be itchy. Due to the many blood vessels, they may bleed if scratched.
Red moles on scalp are generally not dangerous. That is to say, they are not malignant melanoma. However, be cautious if the moles become painful, start swelling or evolving (fast growing). In the event that you notice these suspicious signs, have them checked by a dermatologist to rule out malignant melanoma (cancerous moles). Nevertheless, it is necessary for you to know that it is very rare for red moles to become cancerous.
Causes of Red Moles on Scalp
The sudden development of red moles on the scalp could be a sign of underlying health issues. Some of the health problems are hereditary whereas others are related to our lifestyles. Here we outline the causes of red moles on scalp as specified by specialists.
- Heredity: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to have red moles on their scalp.
- Age: Middle-aged people tend to develop red moles on their scalp more than other ages
- Poor diet: Unhealthy diet practices may result in the accumulation of toxic substances in our bodies, especially the liver and the intestines. These, in turn, lead to the formation of red moles on the scalp.
- Sunlight: Red mole may develop if the skin is exposed to too much Ultraviolet (UV) radiation. We need to learn to sunbathe safely.
- Liver disorders: Certain liver problems may make the liver malfunction, resulting in the development of red moles on scalp
- Hormonal disorders: Hormonal imbalance in the body may lead to the development of moles on your scalp. This is especially evident in women during menstruation and pregnancy.
- Psychological problems: Anxiety, stress or depression may lead to hormonal imbalance in the body which in turn may lead to the development of red moles on the scalp.
A red mole on scalp should not be cut or scratched in a way that the skin over it breaks. Due to the many blood vessels, it may bleed seriously in case it is cut. In case it is to be removed by surgery, this should be done by a qualified dermatologist to prevent excessive bleeding.
Pink Mole on scalp
A pink mole on scalp usually appears as a waxy growth. Although rarely, the outermost skin of the mole may be rough, scaly and flaky. They are usually raised and puffy with an oval or round in shape, occasionally white hair growing out of it.
They usually develop after birth on children and even on teens. New moles can even develop on scalps of adults. However, a pink mole that develops on the scalp after twenty years of age is suspicious and should be monitored closely. Where necessary, it should be investigated immediately by a qualified dermatologist.
Pink moles on scalp are usually benign. But, as common practice, they need to be monitored, just in case they may turn out to be malignant. This is especially necessary if they exhibit the ABCDE’s of melanoma. I general, one out of ten people who have pink moles on scalp get diagnosed with malignant melanoma.
Pink moles, like any other moles, form as a result of abnormal rapid multiplication of melanocytes. Melanocytes are skin cells which are responsible for skin pigment formation. The abnormal cell multiplication is caused by the underlying health issues caused by lifestyle, heredity and other circumstances like age. The causes of red moles discussed in an earlier section above can also result in pink moles on scalp.
Just like red moles, pink moles also have many blood vessels and may bleed profusely if cut, incised in an attempt to get rid of them. Therefore, mole removal for pink moles on scalp should be carried out by a dermatology expert.
White Mole on Scalp
Generally, white moles on scalp do not form on their own. They actually a white ring around already existing moles which may be red, pink or black. In most cases, the existing mole is a normal mole.
A white mole or white ring around a mole forms as a result of immune response. Usually, this occurs when a normal mole is subjected to excessive sun exposure. As a result, the skin over and around the mole becomes damaged, leading to the autoimmune response.
In most cases, normal moles fade away and disappear on their own. When this happens, the white patch around the mole also slowly regain pigmentation. Eventually, the mole and its effects may disappear completely, leaving a clear skin.
Black Mole on Scalp
Black moles are usually found other areas on the body, especially on the face. Also, black moles tend to attack dark-skinned people more. However, you can also develop black mole on the scalp. This usually happens when other moles change in color to black or develop dark or even brown sections.
As a matter of fact, black, dark brown moles are more associated with melanoma than the other moles. So, whenever a black or dark mole appears on your skin, visit a dermatologist to examine it. Better still, let the dermatologist investigate it and determine the prognosis of the mole. This will enable medical interventions to be carried out in good time to avert the possible danger of the moles developing to the dreaded malignant melanoma.
Raised Mole on Scalp
Although flat moles may appear on your scalp, most moles on scalp tend to be raised or elevated. Raised moles can be such a nuisance on your scalp. To begin with, they are just unsightly on your head. Furthermore, they can limit the type of hairstyle you may want to have. For example, you may be compelled to keep your hair longer to hide the mole although you prefer short hair.
A raised mole on scalp may also make it difficult to shave your hair. Great care should be taken when shaving if you have a raised red or pink moles on your scalp. As already discussed, these moles have concentrated blood vessel. In case such a mole is cut or injured during shaving, it may bleed excessively and hurt painfully. Besides, the resulting wound may get infected and cause more trouble.
Therefore, it may be necessary to get rid of raised moles on your scalp on both cosmetic and convenience purposes. Your dermatologist will take your through a mole removal procedure and you will forget all the inconveniences and discomfort caused by these raised moles on your scalp.
Painful or Itchy Mole on Scalp
If a mole on scalp becomes painful, it implies that it is swollen, or irritated. It may also mean that the mole is infected by due to harmful bacteria, especially after it has been damaged or injured sometime back. An infected mole may become itchy. Occasionally, the pain and itching are also accompanied by a headache.
A swollen and irritated mole which may be itchy and painful is a sign of melanoma. The mole may also change in color or have multiple colors. In the event of such a mole on your scalp, have it examined by your doctor in order to rule out malignant melanoma. In case, it is found to be cancerous, your doctor will have it treated or removed to stop the cancerous cells from spreading to other areas of your body.
Cancerous Mole on Scalp
Cancerous moles are medically termed melanoma or malignant melanoma. Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Normally, melanoma, like any other type of cancer, is easily managed and treated if it is discovered at the early stages. Therefore, it is worthy being very vigilant about moles on your scalp, and any other part of your body for that matter.
To monitor mole on your scalp, keep examining already existing moles for any changes in color size or shape. Also, note when they swell or become itchy. They may also become irritated painful or even cause headaches. In such events, have them checked by a dermatologist immediately. Importantly, it is good practice to have your moles examined from time to time even without these signs. The consequences of taking chances with moles are dire and regrettable. But timely measures will save you dreadful experiences of melanoma.
If you do not have any mole, check your scalp regularly for any new mole or growth that may be developing. The sudden appearance of new moles is another common and probable sign of melanoma. So, immediately inform your dermatologist in case you notice new moles developing on your scalp. It is worth noting that normal moles and especially atypical moles are actually non-cancerous. However, they may become cancerous with time. Such occurrences are very common.
When you visit your doctor, he will examine the mole to find out whether it is dangerous. He may perform a biopsy to confirm or negate the presence of cancerous cells in the mole. Mole biopsy involves getting a tissue from a suspicious mole so that it can be examined and tested by a pathologist for any anomaly or disease. In case the mole is found to be cancerous, it is usually removed to prevent the cancer cells from spreading to other parts of your body.
Characteristics of a Cancerous Mole on Scalp
The characteristics of a cancerous mole are summarized by the ABCDE’s of melanoma. This is an abbreviation used by dermatologists to sum up the signs to look for when examining a mole. The meaning of ABCDE’s of melanoma is as outlined below.
A – Asymmetry: The shape of the mole is not symmetrical
B – Border: the border of the mole is irregular and blurred
C – Color: The mole has multiple colors, or different moles have different colors
D – Diameter: The diameter is larger than a pencil eraser about (6 mm)
E – Evolving: The mole grows or increases in size, becomes elevated, itchy or start bleeding.
Apart from being itchy or bleeding, moles on scalp, especially the suspicious ones, may swell or start getting bigger. As a result, they may hurt a lot because they became irritated and even cause headaches. In such an event, you must visit your dermatologist immediately because these are bad signs pointing to melanoma.
However, not all moles that exhibit these characteristics are cancerous. Nonetheless, the mole that exhibits these characteristics is supposed to be initially considered suspicious until a diagnosis by a dermatologist rules out melanoma.
Mole on scalp Removal and Treatment
You can decide to remove moles on your scalp for cosmetic or convenience purposes. However, it may be inevitably necessary to remove the moles if they are found to be cancerous and hence pose a serious danger to your health and life. However, it may not be necessary to remove them if they are normal moles.
There are various ways of getting rid of moles. The method chosen by your dermatologist depends on its size, its depth and the exact location of the mole on your scalp. Above all, the method chosen will also depend on whether the mole removal was necessitated by cosmetic or medical reasons or both. Here, medical reasons refer to cancerous moles.
If the mole is to be removed for cosmetic reasons, the method chosen should be one that will leave a clear skin without a scar, irregular or partially raised areas. On the other hand, if the mole is to be removed for medical reasons, the focus will be on ensuring that no traces of the cells with cancer remain.
The most common method of removing moles by shave excision. However, this method is appropriate for raised moles which are not cancerous. For cancerous mole and deeply rooted moles, deep excisions may be necessary to remove them. Another method that could be used to remove moles is laser mole removal and treatment. This method is appropriate for removal of small moles or flat moles on scalp, especially cancerous moles. You can visit Mole Removal for further detail.
Mole on Scalp Meaning
Apart from the medical significance, it is also believed that having a mole on the body signifies a certain destiny that awaits you or a future personality trait. The mole meanings in this regard depend on their location, size, shape and color. The same applies to birthmark meanings. A mole on scalp has various meanings depending on the exact location of the scalp.
- Right side of the head or scalp: A mole that is located on the right side of the head or scalp means that the individual having it will excel in politics. Success in politics will make him very famous and popular and place him in a high social class. A red or green mole means that he will be a minister or even a president.
- Left side of the head or scalp: If the mole is located on the left side of the head or scalp, it is a bad luck mole because it denotes poverty. Also, this individual will never marry and will develop great interest in literature and spirituality.
- Back of the head or scalp: If the mole is located on the back of the head or scalp, it indicates meekness. It means that the individual will be very submissive to his wife. Sadly, the wife will misuse the advantage and ruin the reputation of the individual by interfering with his friends. Though he will be very rich, he might not be in a high social status due to the irresponsible wife.
These meanings apply to female persons too in a similar way. However, the meanings apply such that there is an exchange in spouses wherever it is applicable. In a nutshell, a wife takes the place of a husband and vice versa. Visit the page Mole Meanings for further information about moles and their meanings.
These meanings are based on superstitious myths and legends of various community in the world including Chinese, Hindu and Islam. Therefore, the meanings may be only applicable to those communities or people who subscribe to their myths and legends.
We hope that you have gained quite some knowledge to help you deal with moles on your scalp. However, might still be having a comment, concern or a question about moles on scalp. Feel free to share your sentiments in our comment form below.
Cosmetic Laser Mole Removal from the Scalp Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rHNt_OUUP8
Benign Mole Removing of from the Scalp (Video)
Sources and References
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- Mole on scalp: https://www.melanoma.org/find-support/patient-community/mpip-melanoma-patients-information-page/mole-scalp
- Moles: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/moles/Pages/Introduction.aspx
- Common Moles, Dysplastic Nevi, and Risk of Melanoma: https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/moles-fact-sheet
- What Causes Red Moles on Your Skin: https://health.onehowto.com/article/what-causes-red-moles-on-your-skin-1543.html
- Mole on Scalp – Removal of Red, Pink, Black Mole on Scalp: http://www.beautyzion.com/skin-moles/mole-on-scalp-red-pink-black/
- Facts About Red Moles: http://www.livestrong.com/article/183965-facts-about-red-moles/ [/showhide]
You went off the rails with the “meaning” section… Why publish and potentially give credence to such pseudo-scientific ideas?
>”If the mole is located on the left side of the head or scalp, it is a bad luck mole because it denotes poverty.” ಠ_ಠ