Skin is the body’s largest organ, and it also can have an endless number of marks, spots, and growths. One such thing is a hairy nevus. A hairy nevus is a mole or birthmark that contains hair. It might not be a concern to some, notwithstanding, but there are others who are worried about its looks or injury.
If you or your child has a hairy nevus, you’re wondering: What is it, anyway? Is it hurting me? Do I need to have it removed? In this blog, we’re going to simplify everything about hairy nevus so that you understand what it is and how to deal with it.
What Is a Hairy Nevus?
A nevus (plural-nevi) is also called a mole or birthmark. When it grows hair on it, it is a hairy nevus.
- It usually comes at birth (congenital) or in early childhood.
- It can be small, medium, or large in size.
- It can be light brown, dark brown, or even black in color.
- It usually grows hair on it, which very reason separates it from other moles.
Hairy nevi can appear anywhere in the body but most frequently on the face, arms, legs, and back.
Types of Hairy Nevus
Doctors tend to classify hairy nevi into several types based on their size and age of appearance:
- Hairy nevus, small – Smaller than 1.5 cm.
- Hairy nevus, medium – 1.5 to 20 cm.
- Giant or large hairy nevus – More than 20 cm in diameter. They are not typical but possibly of more concern.
A few of the nevi grow gradually during the life of a child, and some fail to grow in size.
Causes of Hairy Nevus
The origin of hairy nevi is not yet known. But previously, they were believed to be developed during early development in the womb.
- Genetic causes – Changes in the genes of developing skin cells can lead to nevi.
- Melanocyte growth – These are cells in your skin that produce pigment. When they grow abnormally, a nevus is the outcome.
- Stimulation of hair growth – Some also cause more hair follicles, which cause hair to grow on the mole.
Hairy nevi are not contagious, and they are not due to infection.
Are Hairy Nevi Dangerous?
Most hairy nevi are benign, or harmless. But risks do lie:
- Risk of skin cancer – Giant or large hairy nevi carry an increased risk of developing melanoma (a life-threatening form of skin cancer).
- Changes – The nevus must be checked by a physician if there is a change in size, color, or shape.
- Psychological effect – Some people are embarrassed or self-conscious if the nevus is visible, i.e., on the face.
For small and medium hairy nevi, there is, as a rule, no cancer risk. But follow-up is required.
Signs to Watch For
A hairy nevus will not change for many years. But if you notice any of the following changes, see a dermatologist:
- Sudden growth of the mole.
- Change in color (especially black, red, or mottled colors).
- Notched or irregular borders.
- Bleeding or itching.
- Pain or tenderness.
These may be due to other diseases, and it can be examined by a doctor to exclude cancer.
Diagnosis of Hairy Nevus
Once you visit a doctor or a dermatologist, he/she may perform the following:
- Physical examination – Palpation of nevus shape, size, and color.
- Dermatoscope examination – Special devices to examine details of the mole.
- Biopsy – The physician might excise a small sample of tissue for microscopic analysis if suspicion exists.
Diagnosis is simple and straightforward most of the time unless there is a suspicion of any other disease.
Treatment Options
Not all hairy nevi need treatment. Some want to get them removed for cosmetic purposes, and some for medical reasons.
Observation
In the case of small benign nevi, doctors can suggest just keeping an eye on it.
- Skin check-up on a regular basis is required.
Surgical Excision
- Surgeons are able to exercise the nevus.
- Best suited for small and medium-sized nevi.
- Several procedures are needed for large nevi.
Laser Ablation
- Laser treatments reduce the color of nevus and inhibit hair growth.
- Does not remove the nevus from the body altogether but improves looks.
Shaving or Hair Removal
- Hair is shaved, waxed, or laser hair removal is performed.
- Does not remove the nevus but minimizes hair visibility.
Your doctor will recommend the best treatment depending on size, location, and risk.
Complications of Removal
As with any surgery, nevus removal poses some risks:
- Scarring
- Infection
- Recurrence of nevus tissue
- Skin discoloration
Surgery for giant or large nevi can be more complex and may involve skin grafts.
Living With a Hairy Nevus
A hairy nevus will sometimes get in the way of self-esteem, especially if found on the face or neck. Some guidelines on how to deal with it:
- Cosmetic camouflage – Nevi can be concealed with makeup.
- Hair trimming – Shaving or laser removes visible hairs.
- Support – Support group, family, and caregivers deal with emotional impact.
- Medical follow-ups – Regular skin check keeps it safe.
When to Seek Medical Care
You must see a dermatologist if:
- It’s growing or enlarging quickly in size.
- It’s painful, itchy, or bleeding.
- It is an unusual color or shape.
- You want to talk about removal.
Avoid complications earlier with tests.
FAQs
Is a hairy nevus cancerous?
No, they usually aren’t, but large ones will have more chances of developing skin cancer.
Will hairy nevi spontaneously disappear?
No, they usually won’t without treatment.
Do children have hairy nevi?
Yes, they are usually present at birth or shortly after infancy.
Will removal of a hairy nevus prevent cancer?
Yes, surgical removal of the nevus eliminates the risk for melanoma in that spot.
Is laser treatment permanent?
Lasers will soften the hair and lighten the pigment, but treatments may have to be repeated.
A hairy nevus is a mole or birthmark that contains hair. It is generally benign most of the time but giant or large nevi are somehow harmful. If you or your child develop one, your best course of action is to see a dermatologist.
Treatment may be observation, surgery, or laser, depending on size and preference. With treatment and follow-ups, hairy nevi individuals can lead normal, healthy lives.
If you’ve been searching for facts on hairy nevi, here’s the bottom line: they’re usually not dangerous, but watch out for change. And if the nevus is physically or emotionally disturbing, there are safe ways in which you can have it remedied.
