A member asked:

Is skin with many moles has more tendency to get skin cancer when exposed to sun? at what age (how soon)? how can i tan without being harmed?

5 doctors weighed in across 3 answers

Moles and cancer: Many moles is a risk factor for skin cancer. Melanoma usually arises on normal skin, only 20% of the time in a mole.Studies show that tanning, especially in tanning salons, increases risk of skin cancer regardless of number of moles. Melanoma risk is very small before age 12, but rises sharply after that. The more sun damage, the bigger skin cancer risk. New/changing lesions must be seen by derm.

Answered 5/3/2013

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Skin: Yes skin with many moles is statistically more likely to develop skin cancer (melanoma). Tanning increases the risk. There is no such thing as a safe tan. One should reduce sun exposure and use sun protection . See a dermatologist once yearly to have a skin exam.

Answered 11/10/2014

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Dr. Travis Kidner answered

Specializes in Surgical Oncology

Yes: People with greater than 50 moles do have an increased risk for developing melanoma. You should see a dermatologist twice a year for a skin check. And the best way to get a tan is a spray tan!

Answered 1/11/2015

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