Freckle or Mole?

[Champagne]

Can somebody explain to me the difference between a mole and a freckle? I have often disputed this with friends. I have a number of scattered freckles all over my body but some people claim they are moles. However, I think that moles are only moles if they are 'raised' on the skin. Can somebody please clarify?

[Octavius]

A freckle (ephelis) is an increase in pigment in the innermost (basal) layer of the epidermis, which is the top layer of skin. People aren't born with freckles. They develop in childhood and in later years as a result of repeated sun exposure. Freckles occur primarily in sun-exposed areas such as the nose and shoulders. It's thought that freckling is a protective mechanism of the skin. Freckles are especially common in people with fair complexions. Heredity likely also influences freckling.

A mole (nevus) is a small cluster of melanocytes (nevus cells) in the basal layer of the epidermis or in the top layers of the dermis, the second layer of skin. Moles are usually present soon after birth and tend to become more prominent with age. Moles can develop anywhere on the skin, even between the fingers and toes. Most moles are small � usually between 3 and 10 millimeters in diameter � but some can be quite large. They may vary in color from very light to very dark. Their color may darken as a result of sun exposure or hormonal changes during pregnancy.

Moles come in a variety of shapes, sizes, textures, and sizes. They may be flat, bumpy, or dome-shaped. They may be tan, brown, black, or blue. Some are surrounded by pale halos.

Freckles are just pigment cells (cells that contain color) that are contained within the skin in small batches. Freckles are usually tan or light brown, flat, and very small. Sometimes they overlap and run together, so they may look larger.

[georgit79]

I have to go for six month check ups on all my freckles and moles. Just wanted to share....oh no, I've made it sound like you can't see my skin for moles now....

[Buddy]

I had a mole from about 6 yr old then I went 4 a well women clinic and the doc noticed it and she recommded going to my GP.I had surgery within a wk.It was fine - but took 30yrs before someone noticed.That poor GP - God rest her soul died 2 yrs later at 42 from leukamia but she still helped others knowing her own fate.makes you humble. 

[Buddy]

Sorry got a bit maudling there.My son at 10 had a huge mole on his back and my GP decide he would do local surgery.He made a good job and my son was obv left with a a potential scar.We the went to the Lake District for a wee holiday and it burst open.Ended in Carlisle and they were worse than useless.He now has a a huge scar on his back.He cant see it so he doesnt care but I know if the ihe infection had been treated in Carlisle then he wouldnt have the scar he has but cant see because he wasnt wasnt treated.I f pus is cominng out an openn wound - what does that tell you.What an utter wuss I must have been at that time.

In a concise -lol - answer I and my daughter are covered in freckles - usually in the sun.There is a huge difference.Remember freckles are a sign of beautyonly in my daughters case unfortunately - mine are liver spots LOL 

[Buddy]

Sorry about any typos!!!

[Champagne]

Thanks Octavius. You're enlightening as always. x

[Tha-Flash]

A mole is thicker isn't it?

Freckle is more on-the-skin... isn't it?

That's how I've always thought of it anyway.

[foxy.fagin]

Champagne, go see your GP and ask, show what you have, s/he will know what to do. It's important to find out if you can.