Moles are usually brownish, but some may be much darker, while others are skin-colored. They can be rough, flat, raised, and have hair growing out of them. They are generally round or oval, and have a smooth edge.

Moles can change in appearance and amount. Sometimes they eventually fade away or drop off. Some moles respond to changes in hormone levels, as may occur during pregnancy, adolescence, and older age. During teen years they usually grow in number, they also get darker during pregnancy and gradually fade away as people age.