Moles

Diagnosis

Your doctor can identify moles through an examination of your skin. During a comprehensive skin exam, they inspect your skin from head to toe. If there is suspicion of a mole being cancerous, it is extracted and sent to a lab for microscopic examination (biopsy).

Consider incorporating regular skin exams into your preventive medical care routine, and discuss with your doctor the suitable schedule for your individual needs.

Treatment

Treatment is generally unnecessary for most moles. If a mole causes self-consciousness, using makeup can be a simple solution to conceal it. For moles with hair growth, you may consider clipping the hair close to the skin’s surface or plucking it, ensuring the area remains clean if any irritation or cutting occurs. Seek the doctor’s advice if a mole fails to heal.

If you find a mole bothersome or observe suspicious changes, consulting your dermatologist is advisable. Surgical removal of a mole is a swift outpatient procedure. During the removal, your healthcare provider numbs the mole’s surrounding area and excises it, potentially along with a margin of healthy skin. Note that this procedure may result in a permanent scar. Individuals with Black skin face an increased risk of surgical side effects such as pigmentary changes and keloid scars.

If you notice the reappearance of a mole, promptly consult your doctor.