New developments around a skin mole can be unsettling for many. If you’ve noticed a pale, white ring around yours, you may be dealing with halo nevus. It’s a common condition but still warrants a trip to the dermatologist. Below is everything you need to know on the topic before your visit.

Your Guide to Halo Nevus

What It Is

Halo nevus often develops around moles on the chest, abdomen, and back. It begins as a pale circle, can become pink or fade, may remain after the mole disappears, or can gradually return to the natural skin tone. They’re common in children and adults and are almost always benign, or noncancerous. In rare cases, however, they can signal skin cancer, which is why you should always consult with a dermatologist for an official diagnosis.

How It Develops

Halo nevus manifests when the immune system attacks the mole for reasons unknown. Some speculate that the body assumes the mole is harmful and sends T cells—a type of white blood cell—to defend the pigment around the mole, resulting in the pale ring. It can also develop when the area around a mole is sunburned, and the body reacts.

Treatment Options

So long as the mole is benign, a dermatologist won’t provide extensive treatment. Halo nevus usually fades on its own. In the meantime, wear a dermatologist-approved sunscreen around the mole. Because the pigment is lighter, the area is more susceptible to sunburn and may increase your risk of skin cancer.

If you have concerns about halo nevus or other dermatology issues, contact Aylesworth Dermatology in Rhinelander, WI. This dermatologist is backed by 36 years of experience and provides a wide scope of care, ranging from eczema and acne treatment to skin cancer treatment and mole removal. Explore their full services online. Call (715) 369-4500 to schedule a skin care exam.