Flat moles on the face: what to know

A mole is a collection of pigment-producing cells. It may be flat, round or uneven in outline, and can range from tan to brown or nearly black. Facial moles can be present for years without causing symptoms. A photograph can help you notice change, but it cannot diagnose a mole.

A clinician assesses the mole's colour pattern, border, symmetry, size, surface and history. The appearance of one mole is not a reliable way to identify what every other spot means.

Arrange a skin examination if the mole is new, looks different from your other moles, catches on clothing or jewellery, or concerns you cosmetically. Do not cut, burn or apply home removal products to a facial mole. These approaches can injure the skin and make later assessment harder.

If removal is appropriate, a dermatologist can discuss options such as Mole Removal or Surgical Excision. The choice depends on the mole's features, depth, location and whether tissue needs laboratory examination. Sun protection can reduce additional ultraviolet exposure to the face.

Seek a prompt dermatology review if a mole changes in shape, colour or border, develops several shades, repeatedly bleeds, crusts, itches persistently or becomes painful. Rapid change, a sore that does not heal, or a dark mark unlike the rest of your moles also merits assessment. These signs do not prove cancer; they indicate that the spot should be examined rather than watched alone.

Ask whether the mole looks clinically typical, whether a dermatoscope or tissue sample is needed, which removal method would leave the least noticeable mark, and how to care for the area afterward. Ask what specific change should trigger another appointment.