How long does it take for skin to heal after mole removal. What are the best aftercare tips for faster recovery. Can you shower after mole removal. How to minimize scarring and promote proper healing.

Understanding the Mole Removal Process

Mole removal is a common dermatological procedure performed for both medical and cosmetic reasons. Whether your doctor has recommended removal due to health concerns or you’ve opted for it for aesthetic purposes, understanding the recovery process is crucial for optimal healing.

Types of Mole Removal Procedures

• Shave excision
• Punch excision
• Surgical excision
• Laser removal

Each method has its own specific recovery timeline and aftercare requirements. Your dermatologist will choose the most appropriate technique based on the mole’s characteristics and location.

Typical Healing Timeline After Mole Removal

The healing process after mole removal varies depending on several factors. On average, it takes about two to three weeks for the skin to heal completely. However, this timeline can be influenced by various elements:

Factors Affecting Healing Time

1. Age: Younger individuals generally heal faster than older adults.
2. Wound depth: Deeper incisions require more time to heal.
3. Location: Areas with more movement may take longer to heal.
4. Aftercare: Proper wound care significantly impacts healing speed.
5. Overall health: Conditions like diabetes can slow healing.

Do you need to take time off work after mole removal. In most cases, you can return to work immediately, but it’s best to avoid strenuous activities for a few days, especially if the mole was removed from an area prone to movement or friction.

Essential Aftercare Tips for Optimal Healing

Proper aftercare is crucial for minimizing scarring and promoting quick healing. Here are some expert-recommended tips:

Wound Care and Cleaning

How often should you clean the mole removal site. Clean the area gently with mild soap and water once or twice daily, as directed by your doctor. Pat dry with a clean towel and apply any prescribed ointments or dressings.

Sun Protection

Protecting the healing area from sun exposure is critical. UV rays can darken scars and slow healing. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 once the wound has closed, and consider covering the area with clothing when outdoors.

Avoiding Skin Stretch

Minimize movement and stretching of the skin around the removal site, especially during the first week. This helps prevent the wound from reopening and reduces the likelihood of a larger scar.

Managing Discomfort and Itching

It’s common to experience some discomfort and itching as the wound heals. This is typically a sign that the healing process is underway.

Normal Post-Procedure Sensations

• Mild pain or tenderness
• Itching
• Slight redness around the wound
• Minimal swelling

How long does the pain last after mole removal. Most patients experience tenderness for 1-4 days post-procedure. If pain persists or intensifies, consult your dermatologist.

Itch Relief Strategies

To alleviate itching without compromising healing:

• Apply a cold compress
• Use doctor-approved hydrocortisone cream
• Keep the area moisturized
• Avoid scratching or picking at the scab

Bandage Management and Showering Guidelines

Proper bandage care is essential for preventing infection and promoting healing.

Bandage Duration

How long should you keep the bandage on after mole removal. Typically, the initial bandage should remain in place for 24-48 hours, as instructed by your doctor. After this period, you may need to change the dressing daily or as directed.

Showering After Mole Removal

Can you shower after mole removal. Yes, but with caution. Wait at least 24 hours before showering, and avoid direct water pressure on the wound. Gently pat the area dry afterward and reapply any prescribed ointments or dressings.

Recognizing Signs of Proper Healing vs. Complications

Understanding the difference between normal healing and potential complications is crucial for a smooth recovery.

Normal Healing Signs

• Gradual reduction in redness and swelling
• Scab formation and eventual shedding
• Itching sensation as the wound heals
• Slight skin discoloration that fades over time

Warning Signs to Watch For

When should you be concerned about your mole removal site. Contact your doctor if you experience:

• Increased pain or swelling
• Excessive bleeding or oozing
• Foul odor or discharge
• Fever or chills
• Reopening of the wound

Long-Term Scar Care and Minimization

While some scarring is inevitable, proper care can significantly minimize its appearance.

Scar Minimization Techniques

1. Use silicone-based scar gels or sheets as recommended by your dermatologist
2. Massage the healed scar gently to improve blood flow and collagen production
3. Continue sun protection to prevent scar darkening
4. Consider professional treatments like microneedling or laser therapy for significant scars

How long does it take for a mole removal scar to fade. While initial healing takes 2-3 weeks, scar fading can continue for up to a year. Patience and consistent care are key to achieving the best cosmetic outcome.

Lifestyle Adjustments During Recovery

Making temporary lifestyle modifications can significantly impact your healing process and final results.

Physical Activity Restrictions

When can you resume exercise after mole removal. Light activities can usually be resumed within a few days, but avoid strenuous exercises or activities that could stretch or irritate the wound site for at least 1-2 weeks. Consult your doctor for personalized advice based on the location and extent of your procedure.

Dietary Considerations

While there are no strict dietary restrictions, focusing on nutrient-rich foods can support healing:

• Protein-rich foods to support tissue repair
• Vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables to boost collagen production
• Zinc-containing foods to enhance wound healing
• Adequate hydration to support overall skin health

Should you avoid alcohol after mole removal. It’s advisable to limit alcohol consumption for the first few days post-procedure, as it can potentially interfere with healing and increase the risk of bleeding.

Clothing and Accessory Precautions

Choose clothing and accessories carefully to avoid irritating the healing site:

• Opt for loose-fitting clothes that don’t rub against the wound
• Avoid jewelry or accessories that might catch on the bandage or wound
• Consider using protective padding for mole removal sites in high-friction areas

Follow-Up Care and When to Seek Medical Attention

Proper follow-up care is crucial for ensuring complete healing and addressing any concerns promptly.

Scheduled Follow-Up Appointments

Your dermatologist will typically schedule a follow-up appointment to:

• Remove stitches (if applicable)
• Assess healing progress
• Address any concerns or complications
• Discuss pathology results (for biopsied moles)

How soon after mole removal should you have a follow-up appointment. This varies based on the removal method and individual healing, but generally occurs within 1-2 weeks post-procedure.

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Attention

While most mole removals heal without incident, be vigilant for signs that warrant immediate medical attention:

• Severe pain that worsens over time
• Signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus)
• Allergic reactions to bandages or ointments
• Unexpected changes in the appearance of the healing site

Is it normal for the mole removal site to bleed days after the procedure. While slight oozing is normal initially, persistent or heavy bleeding several days post-procedure is not typical and should be evaluated by your doctor.

Long-Term Skin Health and Mole Prevention

After recovering from mole removal, it’s important to focus on overall skin health and prevention of future problematic moles.

Regular Skin Self-Examinations

Conducting regular self-checks can help identify new or changing moles early:

• Examine your skin monthly, including hard-to-see areas
• Use mirrors or ask a partner to help check your back and scalp
• Look for the ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color changes, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolving appearance

How often should you have a professional skin check after mole removal. It’s generally recommended to have an annual full-body skin exam with a dermatologist, but those with a history of atypical moles or skin cancer may need more frequent checks.

Sun Protection Strategies

Comprehensive sun protection is crucial for preventing new moles and protecting your skin health:

1. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily
2. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors or after swimming/sweating
3. Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses
4. Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm)
5. Consider using UV-protective clothing for extended outdoor activities

Lifestyle Factors for Skin Health

Adopt habits that promote overall skin health and resilience:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants
• Stay hydrated to support skin elasticity and healing
• Avoid smoking, which can impair skin healing and increase cancer risk
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise, as chronic stress can affect skin health

Can lifestyle changes reduce the likelihood of developing problematic moles. While genetics play a significant role, a healthy lifestyle, particularly sun protection, can significantly reduce the risk of developing atypical moles and skin cancers.

Psychological Aspects of Mole Removal and Recovery

The psychological impact of mole removal, especially for visible or numerous moles, shouldn’t be overlooked.

Addressing Body Image Concerns

Mole removal can affect one’s body image, particularly if the mole was in a visible area or if multiple moles were removed. Strategies to cope include:

• Focusing on the health benefits of the removal
• Using positive self-talk and affirmations
• Discussing concerns with a therapist or support group
• Exploring scar camouflage techniques if necessary

How can you boost confidence after visible mole removal. Many find that embracing their new appearance, focusing on overall health, and using temporary cosmetic techniques during healing can help maintain self-esteem.

Managing Anxiety About Future Skin Changes

Some individuals may experience increased anxiety about developing new moles or skin changes. To manage this:

1. Educate yourself about normal skin changes vs. warning signs
2. Maintain regular dermatology check-ups for peace of mind
3. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
4. Join support groups or online communities for individuals with similar experiences

Is it common to feel anxious about skin changes after mole removal. Yes, it’s quite normal to be more aware of your skin after mole removal. Channeling this awareness into positive skin care habits and regular check-ups can help manage anxiety constructively.

Advances in Mole Removal Techniques and Scar Minimization

The field of dermatology continues to evolve, offering new techniques for mole removal and scar management.

Innovative Removal Methods

Recent advancements in mole removal include:

• Radiofrequency ablation for superficial moles
• Photodynamic therapy for certain types of moles
• Cryosurgery improvements for minimal scarring
• Advanced laser techniques for precise removal

How do new mole removal techniques compare to traditional methods in terms of scarring. Many newer techniques aim to minimize scarring through more precise removal and by promoting faster healing. However, the best method still depends on the individual mole characteristics and location.

Cutting-Edge Scar Treatments

For those concerned about scarring, several innovative treatments are available:

1. Fractional laser resurfacing for improving scar texture
2. Microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for enhanced healing
3. Advanced silicone-based scar sheets with added ingredients
4. Topical treatments containing growth factors or stem cells

When is the best time to start scar treatment after mole removal. Most advanced scar treatments can be initiated once the wound has fully closed and healed, typically around 4-6 weeks post-removal. However, basic scar care, such as sun protection and moisturizing, should begin immediately after the wound has closed.

By understanding the mole removal process, following proper aftercare procedures, and staying vigilant about your skin health, you can ensure the best possible outcome from your mole removal procedure. Remember, every individual’s healing process is unique, so always consult with your dermatologist for personalized advice and care instructions.

What to Expect After Mole Removal (Recover & Aftercare)

It may be time for you to remove a mole or two, should your doctor have shown concern regarding your health risks with the mole, or should you simply wish to have the mole removed for aesthetic reasons. 

Thankfully, the mole removal procedure is relatively simple and will not take long to complete.  However, the most common question on people’s minds is, “How long will it take for the scars to heal after the mole removal?

Well, naturally, the amount of time that it takes for your scar to heal will depend on the size and placement of the scar. Generally speaking, a scar from mole removal surgery should take between two to three weeks to heal. 

However, it is essential to know that in order for your scar to heal as swiftly and healthily as possible, it is necessary to pay attention to the aftercare of the mole removal. Your doctor will provide you with a  dressing routine that will be essential for your recovery.  

How Long Does Skin Take to Heal After Mole Removal?

Of course, there are many factors that contribute to a wound’s healing process: 

• Age: As is the case with all wounds, younger people tend to get better faster than older people. 
• Depth: As you might imagine, the deeper the incision, the longer it will take for it to get better. 
• Care: The care that you take after the mole removal procedure is essential for it to scar over properly and for your overall health. For example, should you not keep the area clean at all times, the wound risks getting infected, which will not only prolong the healing process and make it more arduous it may also impact your health in other ways. 

Aftercare Tips For a Faster Recovery Time

Thankfully, there are a few things that you can do to help your healing process go a little faster and better: 

• Do not stay out in the sun: Sunshine rays are dangerous at the best of times. It has been proven to be extremely beneficial for skin care to wear sunscreen even on cloudy and rainy days to better protect your skin. However, using sunscreen on an open wound would be a mistake, and the best thing that you can do would be to keep the area away from the sunshine. The UV rays could darken or discolour the scar. Even when the wound has properly scarred, you will need to remember to protect it from the sunshine thoroughly by using at least SPF 30 sunscreen, and if possible, by covering it with a bandage or clothing. 

• Avoid stretching the skin on and around the scar: If the moles have been removed from an area on your body that has a lot of frequent movement, then as difficult as it may be, try not to stretch the skin around that area, too much. Not only could it make the healing time longer, but it would also stretch the scar, thus making it bigger. 

• Always keep the wound clean: As your doctor will inform you, keeping the area clean after the mole removal is essential! By keeping it clean, you will be giving your skin a better chance of healing quickly and properly and reducing your risk of the wound becoming infected. In order to keep it clean, you will have to frequently change the wound dressing and use whatever creams your doctor prescribes.

What Should I Watch After Mole Removal?

If you have any moles removed, then there are a few things that you will need to keep an eye on: 

• The colour of the scar: You will need to keep an eye on the colour of the scar tissue as any discolouration could be a sign of an infection. 

• The cleanliness of the wound: Although it can be difficult keeping an area clean around stitches, your doctor will show you exactly how to take care of it, and you will need to keep the site clean as well as the skin around it.

How Long Do You Keep a Bandage on After a Mole Removal?

Depending on the procedure, you will need to keep the bandage on your stitches for between 24 hours and 48 hours after the moles have been removed. 

Once the bandage has been removed, you will be able to clean the area and begin to moisturise it.

In fact, once the bandage has been removed, you will need to begin any medical treatments that your doctor has prescribed, including cleaning, moisturising, and dressing the wound and surrounding area.

How Long Does It Hurt After Mole Removal?

Depending on where the moles were removed, you should not experience any severe pain after the removal.

However, patients typically experience tenderness around the stitches and some sore patches. 

Generally speaking, you should expect tenderness and mild discomfort around your stitches for the first one to four days after the mole removal. 

The itchiness and discomfort is natural and will come from the wound scarring over. Once it has reached a certain point after no more than a few days, you should feel completely fine. 

Can I Shower After Mole Removal?

Once your moles have been removed, you should not shower or get them wet for at least the first two days. 

Once the first two days have passed, you will be able to shower, and in fact, it would be good in order to clean the stitches and surrounding area.  

However, you should not submerge the stitches in water (for example, by swimming in a pool or in the ocean, having a bath, etc.). By submerging the stitches, you may infect the scar tissue. 

You should also not shave around the scarring area until the skin has completely recovered. 

It may take a few weeks for the skin to scar over entirely and the scarring area to be at a stage where you can submerge it.

Summary 

Whether you have a cancerous mole or not, all moles carry a risk of skin cancer, melanoma specifically. There are plenty of reasons of getting rid of moles, and the surgical procedure is generally easy and quick to do. 

However, in order to ensure that your body heals properly, you will need to take the time and precautions to ensure success. Weeks of constant care, and even years of special attention on the scar area (such as sun protection, moisturising, scarring cream, etc.), may be required.

Your doctor will be able to give you the best suggestions for taking care of your scars; however, should you notice that the healing process is not going to plan or that your scarring is more significant than you might have expected, then contact our dermatologists who will have experience with a mole removal process.  

Read Also: How much does mole removal cost?

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What You Can Expect Before, During & After Mole Removal

Mole removal can be necessary in certain cases and if you have noticed a mole has changed you should book an appointment with a skin specialist. For example, these changes might include differences in colour, growth, itching or bleeding.

During your skin check appointment, a mole biopsy may be recommended if there are possible signs of melanoma, a fast-spreading form of skin cancer. The type of removal and treatment of melanoma will depend on how far it has progressed. There are other types of skin cancer that may be detected including basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

In other cases, a common mole can be uncomfortable or you might not like its appearance. Perhaps it is irritated by your bra strap or shaving, or the mole is in a visible position such as your face, neck or chin. 

Skin Cancer Mole Removal 

Diagnosis

A skin specialist will most likely consider a biopsy of a suspicious looking mole in order to determine if it is skin cancer or malignant melanoma. 

A mole biopsy involves either an excision, or shaving using a circular blade. Depending on the size of the area and method used stitches may be required. After numbing the site with a local anaesthetic, the specialist will remove either a small portion, the complete mole or an irregular piece for analysis. Importantly, analysis in the pathology lab will give a clearer indication of what steps to take next.

Treatment

If caught in the early stages, the aim of surgery is to remove the complete mole, so in the case of melanoma, a wide local excision biopsy may be required. During this type of surgery, an area of skin around the mole is also removed to minimise the risk of the cancer spreading.  

Depending on the stage of melanoma progression, general health, age, and other factors, the specialist team will create an individualised treatment plan. More aggressive treatment with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiotherapy may be recommended after surgery for melanoma which has spread throughout the body. 

Cosmetic Mole Removal 

Initial Consultation 

Most common moles will not require removal. These are small melanocyte skin growths which might be skin colour or darker, flat or slightly raised. Regardless, regular skin checks are advisable to ensure that there are no changes to existing moles or the growth of new, suspicious looking moles. 

Although cosmetic mole removal is usually quite a simple procedure, it can still feel daunting. Rest assured that our experienced specialists will take the time to talk through your concerns during your initial consultation. Once the mole in question has been assessed by the specialist and removal options have been discussed, an appointment can be made for the procedure.  

It is common practice for any moles which have been removed to be sent for analysis. 

Procedure 

Usually, the skin is prepared by cleaning the site thoroughly before the application of local anaesthesia or topical ointment is used to numb the area. 

Depending on the size and position, the skin specialist will either shave the mole or gently excise it.

Mole Removal by Excision with Stitches 

Moles which are in cosmetically prominent positions are generally removed by excision with stitches to minimise scarring. After mapping and preparing the area a scalpel is used to remove the mole. If the mole was growing under the skin, the excision might be deep and stitches will be required. 

Mole Removal by Shaving without Stitches 

This is a simple procedure during which a scalpel is used to shave the mole and either remove it completely or leave it slightly under the skin. The skin specialist will cauterise the wound, treat it with an antibacterial solution, and cover it with a bandage.  

After Mole Removal 

After receiving instructions on wound care, if there is no faintness or dizziness, it is safe for you to go home and relax. It might take a few days or even weeks to completely heal depending on the procedure. 

Pain is uncommon, but soreness and itching might be present. Unless you are feeling unwell, normal activities can generally be resumed the next day. 

Risks of Mole Removal 

Although uncommon, there are cases of infection, nerve damage, and excessive scarring after mole removal. This is why it is important to choose a highly qualified and experienced professional. 

When it comes to mole removal our specialists take extra care to minimise scarring. 

Regular Skin Checks 

If the removed mole was cancerous, regular 3 -6 monthly skin checks will be recommended for the first 5 years to ensure the cancer has not returned or spread. Even if the mole was non cancerous it is still important to keep an eye on any moles or freckles for peace of mind that all is well with the skin. Be assured that My Skin Centre specialists have the skills and equipment to provide the best of care in this area. 

Self skin checks are very important and can be the pathway to early detection. Remember to be vigilant with sun protection, wear a hat and sunscreen, and cover up with long sleeved clothing. 

If you have any further concerns about mole removal please contact us at My Skin Centre and our friendly staff will be happy to answer your queries.

After removal of a mole: restrictions, care, stages of healing and possible consequences eye swelling and redness. This is a normal skin reaction to laser coagulation. On average, the wound healing process after the removal of a mole can take from 2 to 4 weeks. It should be understood that the larger the area occupied by the removed mole, the longer it will take for tissue regeneration in the damaged area.

Healing steps and care

Days 0-7

During the first 7 days after the procedure, a dark crust forms at the site of the mole, which should never be removed. The postoperative crust on the wound performs a protective function – it protects the wound from infection and allows new tissue to actively grow under it. The first week after removal, the operated site should be protected from all kinds of injuries and damage – avoid rubbing clothes or washcloths, do not comb, do not allow cream or other cosmetics to get in. As prescribed by the doctor, the crust can be treated with disinfectants (a weak solution of potassium permanganate) or antibiotic ointments.

Days 7–14

Days 7–9 after removal of the mole, the dark crust should fall off the wound, leaving behind soft pink new skin. During this period and the next 10-12 days, the damaged area should not be exposed to ultraviolet rays. To do this, reduce the time in the sun and use a sunscreen with a maximum sun protection factor SPF 50. Direct exposure to the sun on young skin after removal of a nevus can lead to persistent pigmentation, which is especially undesirable on the face.

Day 20 and after

By the 20th day after the laser coagulation procedure, full-fledged healthy skin is formed at the site of the removed nevus, capable of withstanding ultraviolet radiation and other external influences, including mechanical ones. After complete healing of the wound, further specialized care is not required. If a slight itching is felt at the site of the removed nevus after 20 days, but the skin looks normal, you can use special soothing ointments. By the 30th day after the procedure, the fossa from the removed mole is smoothed out, after which, for the 3rd month, a barely noticeable trace of the procedure remains on the skin normally.

General restrictions after mole removal

• For four weeks after the laser mole removal procedure, it is not recommended to visit the solarium and sunbathe under the sun to prevent hyperpigmentation;
• For two weeks after the procedure, it is recommended to refrain from visiting the sauna and swimming pool to reduce the risk of secondary infection;
• Alcoholic beverages should be avoided for 3–5 days after removal, as they cause vasodilation, which can cause bleeding;
• If the mole was removed on the face, it is not recommended to apply decorative cosmetics to the laser-treated skin for 7 days.

Complications after removal

After removal of a mole, it is necessary to carefully monitor the damaged area of ​​the skin. In some cases, after the removal procedure, negative symptoms may be observed that require contacting the clinic and prescribing additional therapy. These symptoms include:

• purulent discharge from the wound;
• severe swelling of the skin, persisting for several days;
• prolonged bleeding from the wound;
• increase in body temperature above normal;
• severe wetting, severe itching.

Possible consequences

In some cases, the healing process may go with some deviations from the norm, which can be eliminated by additional procedures. Such deviations are the following situations:

• Recurrence of a nevus (reappearance of a mole) is possible if not all cells of the mole were removed during the procedure and some microscopic nevus particles remained in the same place. This situation does not pose any health risk and requires only observation. If the mole grows again, then if desired, it can be removed again;
• Hypopigmentation – the appearance of a white spot at the site of removal. This cosmetic defect is possible if the removed neoplasm was located in the deep layers of the skin. Also, sunbathing during the prohibited period can lead to the appearance of hypopigmentation. In any case, the resulting white spot does not require medical correction and will disappear on its own in 1.5–2 years;
• Hypotrophic scar – a deepening at the site of a removed neoplasm that occurs due to a low rate of tissue regeneration. A deep scar is an inconspicuous cosmetic defect and does not require any intervention, as it gradually smoothes out on its own;
• Hypertrophic scar – a bulge at the site of a coagulated mole, which may be darker than the surface of the skin. If the convex scar has not smoothed out on its own after 3-6 months, then the doctor may prescribe medication or additional cosmetic procedures to eliminate it.

What to do if a mole itches?

Almost every person has moles on their body. They stand out in color – from dark brown to red, often protrude above the surface of the skin. Nevi can appear almost anywhere, including the mouth and other mucous membranes. At the same time, birthmarks appear at any age, both in men and in women.

A nevus is formed in places of accumulation of special skin cells – melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin. These cells can become activated, and their number will begin to increase dramatically, for the following reasons:

• Genetic predisposition.
• Hormonal failure.
• Exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Physical injuries, viral diseases and even stressful situations can also be such factors.

In a normal state, moles do not bother the owners in any way, except perhaps for aesthetic problems. But if the mole itches, then this is a clear sign that certain processes are taking place in it. To rule out unpleasant consequences, such as melanoma, it is recommended to visit a dermatologist.

Why does a mole on the body itch

The reason for constant scratching of the nevus and the area of ​​skin around it is itching or burning, which are very often provoked by the activation of cell division. The desire to scratch moles appears due to the following mechanical effects:

• As a result of a cut during shaving.
• Scratching the skin next to the nevus.
• When styling hair, a nevus on the scalp can be damaged by the teeth of the comb.
• Rubbing of rough cloth against skin.

Apparently, the list of traumatic influences is quite long. But it will not be difficult to identify the exact reasons why moles itch. It is enough to recall the events and situations that have occurred recently. In any case, such a symptom should alert and become a reason for contacting a medical institution, where a dermatologist will provide professional advice.

In addition to the above factors that cause itching and a desire to scratch the place where there is a birthmark and / or skin around it, the reasons may be:

• Pregnancy, taking hormonal drugs, etc.
• Sunburn or tanning bed, prolonged outdoor exposure on a clear day.
• Allergy.

Even if the mole is very itchy, the area adjacent to it has turned red, then there is no particular reason for panic. Since the skin in this place is highly sensitive. An allergic reaction will be successfully relieved by taking one tablet of any antihistamine. The consequences of excessive sunburn and hormonal failure will be eliminated after some time. The only thing to do is to control yourself and not scratch the itchy area of ​​the skin.

Mole itches and flakes off

Sometimes there is not only itching in the area of ​​the birthmark. In some people, a mole flakes off, cracking of the surface layer of the dermis occurs. This means that the mole began to peel off due to some processes occurring with it. To make sure that they are not dangerous to health, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Medical advice is needed, as a sign such as itching and peeling in the area of ​​a nevus can be a symptom of both a harmless ailment and the primary manifestation of a dangerous skin disease called melanoma. Early detection of this malignant disease in humans allows doctors to successfully eliminate the problem with minimal consequences.

Removal of a mole, including those with a scaly surface, is indicated not only in the case of melanocyte activation. It is also recommended to remove a benign formation if it is located in places where the nevus is constantly in contact with clothing. This can permanently injure the area of ​​the mole.

What happens if you scratch a mole

Many people are sure that if you injure or accidentally tear off a mole, this will cause a cancerous tumor to grow in this place. Although such an outcome is quite possible, you should not panic. In most cases, no negative effects are observed. As practice shows, if the injured nevus is disinfected in a timely manner and the damaged area is protected from negative external influences, then the wound will heal without a trace.

There is a danger in the presence of the following factors:

• According to its structure, the body of the birthmark can be a “sleeping” melanoma, which, in a state of rest, will not disturb the carrier throughout life. If you injure such a mole, there is a high probability of its transformation into a malignant formation.
• If after damage to the mole there is blood that is difficult to stop even with hydrogen peroxide, this is a sign of damage to the angioma. This type of mole is a knot of blood vessels. They have a convex (protruding above the skin) shape, the color is red. They never degenerate into malignant neoplasms, but are dangerous for bleeding and infection.
• Acquired hanging moles caused by HPV – this type of neoplasm has a high risk of oncological mutation when damaged. Even the slightest break can cause cancer.

Remember that even light scratching of an itchy and scaly mole can lead to accidental injury to its surface. For example, you can unintentionally scratch a birthmark with your fingernail or cut off a mole from a thin “leg” with an accessory.

Mole itches: which doctor to go to

Initially, any nevus is a benign neoplasm. But as a result of certain influences, it can be reborn and acquire an oncological character. This process is often accompanied by itching, burning, peeling of the skin. The first sign that you should pay attention to is the constant desire to scratch the mole. Symptoms such as changes in the size and color of the nevus, bleeding and peeling of the skin should not be left without attention.

It is recommended that you make an appointment with a specialist dermatologist or dermatologist-oncologist without delay. Timely appeal guarantees a successful solution of the problem in the shortest possible time.

For people who do not have the opportunity to visit a specialized doctor in person, the Lazersvit Mole Diagnostic Center offers a unique service – check a birthmark online. Send a picture of the mole to the Lazersvit doctor. After studying it, the dermatologist will provide recommendations or invite you for an in-person consultation.

• Take a good photo of a mole that has grown or changed color. You can use your smartphone camera for this purpose.
• Fill out the questionnaire.
• Specify data for feedback.

Diagnosis of moles by photograph is carried out by an experienced qualified dermatologist of the “Lazersvit” Center.

The site of removal of the mole itches

After removal of the nevus with nitrogen, acid, celandine juice and other aggressive media, itching and burning may be felt, redness and flaking of dry skin are observed. Such signs indicate a thermal burn and damage to healthy tissues. If 14-17 days after the removal of the mole, the scar itches and the scar hurts, you should contact a dermatologist for advice and treatment.

FAQ

• A bump has appeared on the site of the removed mole, is it dangerous?

  Even after using low-traumatic laser technology, a small area of ​​the wound zone remains at the site of exposure, requiring healing. It protrudes above the skin and is covered with a crust, under which a slight itching may be felt. The crust, after a few days, will fall off on its own, and the itching will disappear.

• Can cancer develop in its place after removal of a nevus?

  If laser removal of a nevus is performed by a qualified specialist, then the risks of a malignant neoplasm in this place are zero. You can not comb the wound, as you can bring the infection.