Why Do Moles Grow Hair? Answers & Tips

Moles, also known as beauty marks, are natural skin growths that can appear as early as childhood and last into adulthood. While some people draw on beauty marks for a unique look, natural moles are typically harmless dark spots on the skin. However, if a mole grows hair, it may raise concerns. Board-certified dermatologist Paul Curtiss, MD, FAAD explains that moles are simply collections of cells on the skin called melanocytes, which create the skin’s pigment. Most moles are harmless, but in rare cases, they can become cancerous. Hairy moles can be normal, as hair may grow from moles in hair-bearing areas of the body. Dr. Curtiss emphasizes that a hair within a mole is not necessarily a sign of cancer, and shares signs to look out for. If you have concerns about a mole, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for guidance. Hairs growing out of moles can be removed carefully by shaving, waxing, or plucking, and mole removal can be done for cosmetic reasons or to test for cancer. Laser hair removal should be avoided on moles, as it can cause discoloration. It’s important to have new or changing moles checked by a dermatologist, especially if they develop after age 30. Finally, while some may believe that hair growing out of a mole brings good luck, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.