The Risks of Mole Removal
When it comes to mole removal, often many people think that it’s something that leaves a scar and that it is a painful procedure. In fact this couldn’t be further from the truth, because mole removal is quick, painless and in some cases even scar free.
Firstly, before considering mole removal it’s important to be aware that your mole may be an early warning sign of skin cancer. As a result, if you remove it at home and you’ve got a melanoma, you may inadvertently be masking a situation which will only get worse.
However, generally speaking a mole is a superficial growth that can be removed using a number of methods. Mole removal is not always a good idea because it can leave you with an unsightly scar that may very well be larger than the mole itself! As a result, speaking to a dermatologist should always be your first port of call if you are trying to remove a mole.
Surgical removal of a mole carries almost no risk. It’s an out-patient procedure that’s like getting a skin tag or a wart removed. There are many techniques used today that minimize the risk of scarring, and can make the most unsightly moles disappear. Surprisingly, excision is still popular and in the hands of a skilled cosmetic dermatologist, it is a powerful way to get rid of moles that have been plaguing you for too long.
Mole removal at home is actually possible. There are numerous creams on the market, but before you start removing a mole, it’s important to remember the ABCD of mole identification. This helps you decide whether or not you should see a dermatologist.
A = Area. Take a look at its area, is it growing? If your mole is growing, this is a sign that you should see a dermatologist.
B = Borders. Take a look at the borders, and what they look like. If your mole has relatively smooth borders which aren’t ragged, then you’re OK. If your mole has borders that are irregular, then it’s time to see a dermatologist.
C = Color. Has your mole changed color recently? Is it bleeding? If you can answer yes to any of these, then it’s not a safe mole.
D = Diameter. How big is your mole? Anything bigger than the diameter of a pencil, means that you should see a professional.
If your mole passes the ABCD test, i.e. it’s small, round and hasn’t changed; then mole removal at home is an option. Our only advice is that if you’re going to need to cut it, then see a doctor instead.
One of the easiest forms of mole removal is the use of home remedies and off the counter creams which are widely available. Using a home remedy such as castor oil can be cheap, effective and it can result in making the mole smaller and helping it fade into the skin.
Castor oil is a simple and affordable way to manage your skin moles. Simply apply it to a dressing and place the dressing on the mole overnight, then reapply in the morning. It’s a safe way to deal with the problem and more importantly, it doesn’t hurt.
