Blue Nevus vs Common Nevus

How to tell the difference — key features compared side by side.

Feature
Blue Nevus
Common Nevus
Category
Benign
Benign
Key feature
A blue or blue-black mole caused by deep pigment cells. Stable and benign - but can mimic melanoma.
Normal moles - clusters of pigment cells. Usually harmless, but monthly monitoring for changes is essential.
Risk factors
No specific risk factors - can occur in anyone; More common in women
Genetic predisposition (number of moles is largely hereditary); Sun exposure during childhood and adolescence; Fair skin
Action needed
A new blue or blue-black spot, especially if growing
Any mole that changes in size, shape, or color

Blue Nevus

A blue nevus is a benign melanocytic mole that appears distinctly blue, blue-gray, or blue-black because the melanocytes are located deep within the dermis. The blue color is an optical effect called the Tyndall effect - the same phenomenon that makes veins appear blue through skin.

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Common Nevus

A common nevus is a normal mole - a well-defined growth formed by a cluster of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). Most adults develop between 10 and 40 common moles by their 30s, and the number gradually decreases with age as some moles naturally fade.

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Does yours look more like blue nevus?

Quick self-check

Does this look like blue nevus? Answer 2 questions.

Is the spot distinctly blue or blue-black in color?

Has it been stable and unchanged for years?

Still not sure?

Our full ABCDE checker evaluates 5 clinical criteria dermatologists use.

Full ABCDE check →