Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: leeds laura on 04/03/2006 16:25:31

Title: freckle or mole?
Post by: leeds laura on 04/03/2006 16:25:31

also....what's the difference between a freckle and a mole? i always thought moles were 3D and freckles were flat but this doesn't sound scientific enough! [:)]

Title: Re: freckle or mole?
Post by: neilep on 04/03/2006 17:16:08

I think you've kind of got it there actually Laura (welcome to the site by the way)

Freckles are generally flat and I believe manifest themselves in the early years,(mine did) and become darker and increase in number as a result of exposure to strong sunlight.

Moles, are there from birth and are raised upon the skin, and are mainly dark. The hairy ones you need to keep an eye on !..they can be bad !!!


Having said all that Laura...lets see if someone with some biological knowledge comments...

Men are the same as women.... just inside out !!

Title: Re: freckle or mole?
Post by: DoctorBeaver on 04/03/2006 22:57:08

I've got a hairy mole on my jawline. It makes shaving a bit awkward. It has got me worried a few times as it's gone all red & inflamed; but it soon settles down again and hasn't got any bigger.

Title: Re: freckle or mole?
Post by: neilep on 04/03/2006 23:03:51

..You and your woodland creatures again !!!....

Men are the same as women.... just inside out !!

Title: Re: freckle or mole?
Post by: daveshorts on 04/03/2006 23:29:49

Moles are not all there from birth, I know I have developed loads since I was little. I think they are a result of mutations of skin cells - the mutation is to produce loads more melanin - If a cell has been damaged in one way it is possible it has been damaged in another eg. to not stop dividing - hence why you should be aware of them in case they turn out to be cancerous. I was