Moles are common in older kids and adults. But a baby with a beauty mark? You may not have seen that before. So if your little one has a spot, should you be concerned?
Chances are, the birthmark may not be a big deal. Moles that are present at birth are a little different than the kind many of us develop later on, but they’re not usually cause for concern.
Here’s where they come from, plus what to know about monitoring your baby’s mole and whether it’ll ever go away.
What are moles?
You probably know one when you see one. Moles are brown, freckle-like marks that may have shades of pink, red or black. They can even have hair and become raised, bumpy or rough.
Most moles are acquired, meaning they develop over time due to sun exposure (be sure to use sunscreen lotion on baby; the American Academy of Pediatrics says parents can apply small amounts of baby-safe sunscreen with SPF 30 to 50 on babies under 6 months, and babies 6 months and up should have sunscreen on all areas of exposesd skin).[1]
But occasionally, babies have moles when they’re born or moles that show up during their first year. These kinds of moles are called congenital pigmented nevi.
Like acquired moles, congenital pigmented nevi are usually harmless. But all moles are worth keeping an eye on, since a change in size, shape, color or appearance can be a sign of melanoma.[2]
Where do moles usually appear in babies?
Moles that are present at birth show up anywhere, including on the arms, legs, torso or face.
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Moles can appear in all skin tones. While acquired moles are much more common in babies with lighter skin tones, congenital pigmented nevi occur in all skin tones roughly equally.[3]
What causes moles?
Like acquired moles, congenital pigmented nevi are simply clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Experts don’t fully understand why moles sometimes form before a baby is born or very early in life, but it’s thought to have to do with a random genetic mutation.
While some moles can harbor a higher risk for skin cancers like melanoma, the vast majority of congenital moles, especially small ones, are harmless.
Do moles disappear?
Congenital moles rarely go away, so your baby’s sweet little spot will probably be with her for life. In most cases, it’ll grow in proportion as she gets bigger, and it might get darker, bumpier or hairier when puberty rolls around. Your child’s doctor can help you get a sense for which kinds of changes are normal and ones that might mean the mole needs to be examined.
As for removal? Surgery can be an option when your child is old enough. But it’s usually only done if your child’s dermatologist thinks the mole is suspicious or may be a sign of melanoma. Large moles can also be removed if they make your child self-conscious.[4]
When to speak to your baby’s doctor about moles
Your baby’s pediatrician will likely notice the mole during a well-visit or checkup. But if she doesn’t point it out, it is important that you mention it. And while most congenital moles aren’t cause for concern, it’s worth keeping an eye on them and even keeping a photo record (with pictures taken at regular intervals) to monitor growth or changes. It’s especially important to watch larger moles, which have a potentially higher risk for melanoma.
And absolutely let your child’s doctor know if her mole seems to be making her uncomfortable. While moles don’t tend to be bothersome, larger moles can sometimes get dry or itchy, and lots of scratching can make your sweetie’s skin more irritated.[5]
Moles at birth can be rare (just one more thing that makes your cutie unique!), and when they do show up, they’re not usually a big deal. Just be sure the pediatrician is aware of the mark, and that you keep an eye out for any changes or signs that the mole is quickly changing, gets dry or irritates your little one.
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