How to Tell the Difference Between Birthmarks, Moles and Freckles

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. Read on for dermatologists’ tips on how to spot the difference between birthmarks, moles and freckles, and how to know if you need the marks checked by a derm.

The Difference Between Birthmarks, Moles and Freckles

Many people wonder, is there a difference between a mole and birthmark? What’s the difference between freckles and moles? It’s easy to get them confused, but keep reading for a simple breakdown. 

“In simplest terms, freckles are usually skin cells that have extra pigment, often from the sun,” says Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Moles tend to be raised (though not always) and increase in size from childhood,” he says. Birthmarks can range from pigmented to vascular lesions that you were born with. They are usually caused by an issue with cell migration during initial development.”

What Is a Mole?

As Dr. Bhanusali mentioned, moles are pigmented lesions. They can be flat and smooth or raised and bumpy and can indicate areas of skin where pigment has clumped together.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), moles are usually small in size — less than the size of a pencil eraser — and can be different colors, including pink and black, and can be oval or round in shape. You can find them just about anywhere on your skin: your face, scalp, armpits and even the tiniest spaces between your toes and fingers.

Typically, they develop during childhood or adolescence. Some may disappear with age. Keep in mind that if you are born with a mole, it is considered a birthmark.

How to Get Rid of Moles

According to the Mayo Clinic, most moles are harmless. In rare cases, moles may become cancerous. The key is to monitor your moles and other pigmented patches for changes that may indicate melanoma (more on that later). If you’re looking to get rid of your mole, the AAD recommends seeing your dermatologist.

What Are Freckles?

Have you ever spent the day outdoors only to come back inside and notice spots around your nose and cheeks? Those spots, which are usually brown and flat, are called freckles. They are also known as ephelides and are caused by an increase in melanin, which gives our skin its color. When your body senses your skin being damaged by the sun’s UV rays, it produces more melanin in an effort to protect it from harm. This may result in an all-over color — like a tan — or small patches of freckles in some areas. Those with light-colored skin may be more prone to freckles when exposed to the sun. In some cases, reduced sun exposure may fade the intensity of your freckles.

“Freckles are commonly seen in youth and are spot-like, flat pigmented speckles where the pigmented cells of the skin called melanocytes become active in response to ultraviolet sunlight,” says Dr. Peter Schmid, a board-certified plastic surgeon. “Freckles typically develop in individuals with very fair skin types.”

How to Prevent Freckles

If you don’t like the look of your freckles, you can help reduce your chances of getting them in the first place by wearing broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day and reapplying at least every two hours, even when it’s overcast. We recommend the La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Correct Face Sunscreen SPF 70 With Niacinamide, which protects against UV rays and can help lighten current signs of sun damage. For added protection, wear protective clothing, seek shade and avoid peak sun hours — between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. — when the rays are strongest.