Most people have moles, those dark spots of skin that are often raised above the skin's surface. They can appear on any part of the body and are usually overlooked. Because facial moles are more obvious; many decide to learn more about mole removal on face.
These spots are formed when the melanocytes in skin grow in clusters, instead of evenly distributed throughout the skin. These clusters are usually harmless, but it is always advised to have a medical professional look at any moles that may have irregular edges, or change in color or size.
There are several causes of moles. Some are genetic, birthmarks which the person has always had. Moles can worsen with excessive exposure to the sun, causing them to grow larger or darken. Genetics can also play a part; hereditary moles can be common in some families.
People decide to have them removed for both medical and cosmetic reasons. Luckily, there are many options available to remove moles, from over the counter creams that can be applied at home to surgical procedures performed in a doctor's office.
A consultation with your doctor can let you know which removal method is best for you, based on the depth and number of your moles. There is usually some scarring associates with these procedures, but it is often minimal. Since many experience a slight pain with these procedures, a local anesthetic is often used.
Surgical methods are popular for removal. With surgical removal, the mole and tissue beneath it is removed to be effective. The doctor uses a scalpel for this procedure. For deeper moles, doctors may have to use electrosurgery in which an electrical current is used to get deep under the skin surface. The skin is then stitched up to close the area.
Laser surgery is another option for moles that aren't as deep in the skins surface. A doctor uses a laser to burn the darkened skin tissue away, both removing the mole and sealing the blood vessels so that stitches aren't needed. This is most effective on small moles when scalpel surgery isn't required. This is the least painful surgical procedure and results in less obvious scarring.
For moles that don't penetrate as deeply into the skin, freezing is another alternative. Liquid nitrogen is applied directly to the patient's skin which causes the cells to die and fall off. Freezing carries little risk of scarring and is quick and relatively painless.
There are also a variety of at home products available. These products allows you to treat yourself at home. Over the counter creams and home remedies offer an alternative treatment for those unwilling or unable to have the mole removed in a doctor's office and are often a more affordable solution. Healing time and scarring vary depending on what home treatment is used.
People can make an informed choice about mole removal on the face by informing themselves of the available options. Reviewing the many options available allows those who want to remove a mole to find the method that best fits their budget and lifestyle.