Should I worry if a mole starts itching?

An itchy mole is one of the most common reasons people seek dermatological advice. It’s important to remember however, that moles can become irritated by clothing, friction, dry skin, sun exposure or minor inflammation so an itchy mole doesn’t automatically mean there is something serious going on.

When an itchy mole deserves attention

Although itching is often harmless, it shouldn’t be ignored if it persists. A mole that continues to itch for several weeks without an obvious cause should be assessed. Dermatologists are generally more concerned about symptoms that are new or persistent rather than a brief episode of itching that settles quickly.

Other changes to look for

Itching becomes more significant when it occurs alongside visible changes in a mole. These changes may include an increase in size, a change in colour, an irregular border, bleeding, crusting or ulceration. A mole that suddenly looks different from your other moles should also be checked.

Can skin cancer cause itching?

Some forms of skin cancer can cause itching, but many don’t so it’s important to remember that itching alone is not enough to diagnose skin cancer.

What happens during a skin examination?

A dermatologist will usually examine the mole using a dermatoscope. Which allows structures beneath the surface of the skin to be assessed in greater detail. In some cases, photographs may be taken to monitor changes over time. If there is concern, the mole may be removed and sent for laboratory analysis.

Final thoughts

Most itchy moles turn out to be harmless, but persistent symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. If a mole continues to itch, particularly if it’s changing in appearance, then early evaluation can provide reassurance and ensure that any problems are identified promptly.