Knowing what’s normal and what’s not is key to taking care of your skin and health.
We all have small marks that make us uniquely ourselves – freckles, beauty spots, and moles that tell the story of our skin’s journey. For most women, especially those with lighter skin or a history of sun exposure, freckles and moles are simply part of life. But sometimes changes in these features can be early signs of something more serious.
FRECKLES (ephelides) are small, flat, tan or light brown spots that usually appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, shoulders, and arms. They often become more noticeable in the summer and fade during the winter. Freckles are generally harmless and more common in people with fair skin and red or blonde hair, although they can occur on any skin type.
What about large, flat, freckle-like patches that don’t fade in the off-season? It’s most likely a LENTIGO, which tends to appear on the face and hands in middle age because of sun exposure. They’re harmless but can give rise to more problematic skin lesions, so they should be monitored by a professional periodically.
MOLES (nevi) are usually darker, can be raised or flat, and may appear anywhere on the body. Moles can be present from birth or develop over time, especially during childhood or adolescence. While most moles are benign, some can change and become melanoma – a serious form of skin cancer.
When to be concerned:
The ABCDE rule
One of the most important tools in skin monitoring is the ABCDE rule, developed by dermatologists to help identify warning signs of melanoma. If you notice a mole or spot that meets any of the following criteria, it’s time to book an appointment with a health care practitioner:
A – ASYMMETRY: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
B – BORDER: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
C – COLOR: There are multiple colors or uneven shading (brown, black, red, white, or blue).
D – DIAMETER: The spot is larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
E – EVOLVING: The mole changes in size, shape, color, or texture – or begins to itch, bleed, or crust.
Monthly skin self-exams are a smart habit. Use a mirror to check your entire body, including often-overlooked areas like your scalp, the soles of your feet, and under your breasts. Have your partner or good friend check your back. And don’t skip your yearly skin check with a dermatologist, especially if you have risk factors.
Nourish skin from within
While sun protection and regular checks are your primary defense, nutrition also plays a vital role in skin health and resilience. Specific nutrients help your skin repair itself, reduce inflammation, and handle sun exposure, including vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.
One standout nutrient is ASTAXANTHIN, a potent antioxidant found in microalgae, salmon, and krill. Astaxanthin helps protect skin cells from UV-induced oxidative stress and has been shown to improve skin elasticity and hydration, and even reduce the appearance of age spots. It acts like an internal sunscreen – it offers valuable extra support (though it’s not a substitute for SPF).
Not every mole or freckle is cause for concern, but it’s wise to stay alert. The earlier skin changes are caught, the better the outcome. Trust your instincts: if something seems off, don’t wait, get it checked.
