what is the difference between a freckle and a birthmark

Full Answer

What is the difference between moles and freckles?

Moles are often raised while freckles tend to be flat. Also, moles are generally darker than freckles. Freckles are simply skin cells that form melanin, or melanocytes, that have either appeared, or darkened, due to sun exposure. Melanin is a pigment, or color,...

Are birthmarks the same as moles?

Moles, freckles and birthmarks (also known as beauty marks) — they might all look similar, but they are, in fact, different. It’s important to know what each mark on your skin is and to watch for any changes that could indicate skin cancer.

What are freckles made up of?

Either way, freckles are made up of skin cells with extra pigment. Unlike moles, they’re flat on the skin and typically occur in groups like patches. Light-colored skin types are more prone to freckles, particularly when exposed to the sun, as are those with light or red hair with fair skin and blue eyes.

What are birthmarks and how do they form?

“Birthmarks are moles present at birth or in the early childhood years as red or blue-ish vascular or pigmented lesions,” says Dr. Schmid. “A common birthmark named the ‘stork’s bite’ is a reddish patch at the base of the infant’s neck. It can be of significant shape and size and grow hair.” What Causes Birthmarks?

What's the difference between a freckle and a beauty mark?

Are beauty marks or freckles dangerous? Freckles are completely harmless and don't have the potential to turn malignant. Beauty marks, however, while usually harmless, can turn cancerous. Always consult a dermatologist to determine whether you should be concerned about a mole.

How do you tell the difference between a mole and a birthmark?

Moles are growths on the skin that are usually brown or black; they may be located, alone or in groups, anywhere on the body. A birthmark is a colored mark that appears soon after a baby's birth.

What is the difference between a birthmark and a beauty mark?

Some doctors do consider a mole as a “beauty mark” as it is a pigmentated area. However, birthmarks are flat and located on the surface of the skin, while a mole will protrude above the skin. Additionally, there are many different birthmark types.

Are freckles and moles birthmarks?

Freckles and Birthmarks They are due to a glitch in melanin production within the cells. Birthmarks are among the most common skin discolorations, and include a variety of markings such as moles, strawberry marks, café au lait spots, hemangiomas, and port wine stains.

What are birthmarks caused by?

There are two main types of birthmarks, which have different causes: Vascular birthmarks happen when blood vessels don't form correctly. Either there are too many of them or they're wider than usual. Pigmented birthmarks are caused by an overgrowth of the cells that create pigment (color) in skin.

Why do people get birthmarks?

Birthmarks generally result from an overgrowth of a structure that is normally present in the skin. For example, an overgrowth of blood vessels produces vascular birthmarks or haemangiomas; an overgrowth of pigment cells produces congenital naevi or moles. There are a number myths and superstitions about birthmarks.

Can a birthmark have freckles?

The size varies greatly. It can be the size of a freckle or cover a large area of skin. Most children have one spot, but some kids have more. If your child has six or more café-au-lait spots or you see spots that look like freckles developing around a café-au-lait spot, it's time to see a dermatologist.

What happens if you pick a freckle off?

Never try to remove a mole yourself. It can cause a scar or infection. If you notice any changes to a mole, or if it gets itchy or starts to bleed, get it checked by a dermatologist. These can be early signs of skin cancer.

Are birthmarks inherited?

The occurrence of birthmarks may be inherited. Some marks may be similar to marks on other family members, but most are not. Red birthmarks are caused by an overgrowth of blood vessels. Blue or brown birthmarks are caused by pigment cells (melanocytes).

Are freckles angel kisses?

You've heard all the nicknames- but do you know what causes them to appear? No, not angel kisses. Thank Mom and Dad and a little dusting of sunshine for your remarkable beauty marks. Freckles are the result of inheriting a mutated MC1R gene- (the same gene redheads have) and exposure to UV light.

What is the most common birthmark?

Superficial or capillary hemangiomas are the most common type. They are thick, raised birthmarks that are soft, purplish red, smooth, or slightly bumpy. They may be irregular or round in shape and most often are on the face, scalp, back, or chest.

Is everyone born with a birthmark?

Birthmarks are an area of pigmented or raised skin that can be present at birth or appear shortly afterward. There are many different types of birthmarks, and most of them are harmless. While birthmarks are common, not everyone has them.

Can a birthmark be a mole?

They can be many different colors, from tan to brown, gray to black, or even blue. Moles can be birthmarks. No one knows what causes many types of birthmarks, but some run in families. Your baby's doctor will look at the birthmark to see if it needs any treatment or if it should be watched.

How do you know if you have a birthmark?

You may notice the birthmark changes color, becoming slightly yellow or orange. The surface can feel pebbly or warty. Where it usually develops on the body: This birthmark usually appears on the scalp or face. Occasionally, it develops on the neck or another area of the body.

How does a mole look like?

A common mole (nevus) is a small growth on the skin that is usually pink, tan, or brown and has a distinct edge....Photos of Moles.Common MolesDysplastic NeviCommon moles that are smooth spots on the skinDysplastic nevi with scaly or pebbly surfaces3 more rows•Oct 13, 2011

Can birthmarks be cancerous?

Different types of birthmarks are made up of different types of cells. Most birthmarks, such as the common port wine stains and strawberry marks, carry no risk of developing into a cancer. But a very rare type, called a giant congenital melanocytic naevus, can develop into a melanoma if it is larger than 20cm.

What is freckles made of?

Either way, freckles are made up of skin cells with extra pigment. Unlike moles, they’re flat on the skin and typically occur in groups like patches. Light-colored skin types are more prone to freckles, particularly when exposed to the sun, as are those with light or red hair with fair skin and blue eyes.

What is a strawberry birthmark?

There is a type of birthmark called a “strawberry” birthmark that forms shortly after birth and grows rapidly to form a bright red raised area. These are best treated immediately, as they can form wounds and bleed, or they may interfere with the eyes, nose, or mouth, depending on where they’re located.

How to get rid of freckles on face?

Solution: If you don’t like your freckles, you can help fade them by protecting your skin from the sun with sunscreen and clothing, and by exfoliating your skin regularly . You can also try lightening formulas—just avoid hydroquinone, which can damage skin over time.

What is a mole?

Moles are a type of skin growth, but a typically harmless one. They occur when pigmented cells in the skin grow in clusters or clumps instead of being spread out evenly. They are the result of cellular overgrowth, and they come in three basic types:

What are brown spots on the face?

Larger, flat, brown spots on the face and hands that appear at middle-age and beyond are known as age spots or liver spots. They are flat like freckles and are the result of aging and sun damage. They can form anywhere the skin is exposed to the sun or tanning beds, like the face, hands, arms, décolletage, and legs.

Do birthmarks show up on the same day?

Birthmarks show up at the same time you do—at birth. They come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can show up anywhere on the skin. Scientists don’t know for sure what causes them, but they’re usually harmless.

Can birthmarks fade on their own?

Solution: Your birthmark is unlikely to cause any health problems, but if you’re concerned, check with your dermatologist. If you want to get rid of it, laser treatments and surgery may help. Many birthmarks also fade on their own.