Is scratching a mole really dangerous?

About this episode

Moles can be flat, raised, discreet, 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. 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. Why do moles itch? What if you scratch it until it bleeds? When should you consult a dermatologist? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠⁠Why is exercise good for my skin?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Why do we get moles?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Is it a good idea to fall asleep to music?⁠⁠ A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 16/10/24 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices