Skin Pigmentation: Moles & Skin Tags

Most moles and skin tags are harmless and simply part of what makes you an individual. Learn how they develop and how to determine if they could be problematic.

All about moles & skin tags

Moles and skin tags are very common, but it’s important to know why they occur and how to recognise any changes.

What causes skin tags?

Skin tags are particularly common in older people and diabetes sufferers. Changes in hormone levels can also have an effect, making pregnant women particularly susceptible. They tend to develop in folds of skin or where skin rubs against clothing and are completely harmless.

How do moles develop?

Moles are darker spots on the skin made up of melanocytes, which are the cells that produce pigment in the skin. Unlike freckles, which are smooth, moles can be raised or flat and are common in people of all different skin and hair colours.

Most moles tend to appear on the skin during early childhood and may change slightly as the years go on. If members of your family tend to have moles, it’s likely that you will too, as genetics play a big role in skin pigmentation. However, your upbringing may have an effect as well, particularly if you spent a lot of time in a sunny climate as a child.

Although it’s essential to keep an eye out for changes, most moles are a completely harmless form of skin pigmentation. Some people may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons, but this is a personal preference. The majority of people embrace their moles as a reflection of their individuality.

5 signs that your moles may be problematic

Darkening

If you notice a mole getting darker, this could be a sign that it’s becoming cancerous and it’s important to see a doctor to get it checked out.

5 signs that your moles may be problematic

An uneven border

Most moles have a smooth and round border, so if you notice a slightly irregular outline to your mole, don’t ignore it.

5 signs that your moles may be problematic

Spreading

If you have a mole that seems to be growing outwards from its original shape, this could be an indication that it isn’t safe. Get it checked out as soon as you can.

5 signs that your moles may be problematic

Inflammation

Regular moles on skin shouldn’t be sore, sensitive or bleeding, so if you notice an area of inflammation surrounding a mole, this may be a sign that it’s developing into a cancerous melanoma, so you should seek a medical opinion.

5 signs that your moles may be problematic

Changing colour

Uneven colouring or changes to the original colour of your moles may be cause for concern, so don’t delay in getting them checked out.

Take good care of your skin with NIVEA

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Hyperpigmentation: The basics

What causes hyperpigmentation of the skin and how best to deal with it.

What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is when certain areas of the skin are darkened due to the overproduction of a pigment called melanin. This is a common condition and can affect any area of the body, including the face and hands.

There are many possible causes of hyperpigmentation and often it’s either due to overexposure to the sun or your individual genetic make-up. Certain medications and changes to hormones can also have an effect on whether or not it develops. It’s important to remember that although hyperpigmentation is not generally harmful, you should speak to a doctor if the dark spots change or become itchy and painful.

Acne may lead to hyperpigmentation

If you suffered from bad acne or another form of skin injury when you were younger, this can often leave an area of discoloured skin behind. Dermo-Cosmetic procedures like dermabrasion may cause this too.

Useful tips for preventing hyperpigmentation

Avoid picking at your skin unnecessarily.
Always apply an effective sunscreen like NIVEA Protect & Moisture Sun Lotion to any exposed skin during the summer.
Exfoliate regularly to remove the build-up of dead skin cells.
Wear a sun hat and stay out of the direct sunlight whenever possible.
Avoid using harsh products that may cause inflammation of the skin.

Scrub the day away

A build-up of dead skin cells may be making your hyperpigmentation worse. A good way to encourage skin cell renewal and gradually fade areas of unwanted pigmentation is by regularly using an effective exfoliator like NIVEA Smooth Sensation Body Scrub all over.

You only get one skin – take good care of it!

Keeping the skin with hyperpigmentation moisturised is the ideal way to give it what it needs to stay smooth and healthy-looking. A fast-absorbing, non-greasy moisturiser like NIVEA Express Hydration Body Lotion means you can be dressed and out of the door in no time – so no more excuses!