Transcript generated automatically by AI and may contain errors.
Chapter 1: What are the different types of moles and their characteristics?
Is scratching a mole really dangerous? Thanks for asking. Moles can be flat, raised, discrete or visible. They appear all over our skin and tend to increase in number over time. While these harmless little spots are generally not a cause for concern, they can sometimes be the source of skin cancer, so it's important to keep an eye on them. What exactly is a mole?
A mole is a small dark spot on the skin formed by a cluster of melanocytes. These are the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its colour and helps you tan when exposed to sunlight. While melanocytes are typically spread throughout the skin, in the case of moles they group together creating a visible mark.
Moles can vary in size, shape and colour and they can appear anywhere on the body.
Chapter 2: Why do moles itch and what causes this sensation?
Moles can itch for a variety of reasons. Often they become irritated when they come into contact with clothing, especially if the fabric is rough or tight. Dry skin can also cause itching, as can general skin irritations. In most cases, this itching is harmless and doesn't indicate any serious underlying issues. What if you scratch it until it bleeds?
If you scratch a mole until it bleeds, there's usually no need for alarm. Cutting, scraping or even tearing off a mole typically doesn't pose a significant risk. Most moles are benign and if a mole is partially removed, it may grow back. However, if it's completely removed, it won't return.
While it's generally safe, it's always a good idea to monitor any changes and consult a dermatologist if you have concerns.
Chapter 3: Is it harmful to scratch a mole until it bleeds?
When should you consult a dermatologist? If you're ever in doubt, then don't hesitate to consult a dermatologist. But if you're just monitoring them, then the ABCDE method is a great way to remember what to look out for. A is for asymmetry. Melanoma is often asymmetrical, which means that the shape isn't uniform. B is for border irregularity.
Melanoma often has borders that aren't well-defined or are irregular in shape, whereas non-cancerous moles usually have a smooth, well-defined border. C is for colour variation. Melanoma lesions are often more than one colour or shade. Moles of the benign are typically one colour.
Chapter 4: When should you consult a dermatologist about moles?
D is for diameter. Melanoma growths are normally larger than 6mm in diameter. And E is for evolution or change over time. The last criteria is particularly concerning. If you notice that one of your moles is changing rapidly, consult a dermatologist urgently. The risk is that it could develop into melanoma, a type of skin cancer, so do be vigilant. There you have it.
Now you know if scratching a mole is really dangerous.
In under three minutes, we answer your questions and help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. Listen along and you really will know for sure.