Five things to know about how to get rid of moles at a dermatology practice

Moles are those little bumps on our skin. While many moles are completely harmless, some of them can cause discomfort, make you self-conscious, or even signal a health concern. If you have been considering mole removal, you might want to visit a dermatologist for safe and effective treatment. At Associates in Dermatology in the Westlake, Ohio area, our doctors might recommend a few solutions and strategies to take into account when considering removal. Let’s look at five things you need to know about how to get rid of moles on the skin.

1. Know your moles

Before you start planning the best mole removal strategy, take some time to examine your skin and get to know your moles. Most moles are benign and nothing to worry about. However, keep an eye out for the ABCDE’s of atypical moles:

• Asymmetry – Is one half of the mole unlike the other?
• Border – Are the edges irregular, blurred, or jagged?
• Color – Does the mole have multiple colors or shades?
• Diameter – Is it larger than a pencil eraser?
• Evolving – Has it changed in size, shape, or color recently?

2. Leave it to the professionals.

While DIY mole removal might sound tempting to many, it is not always the best. Before you break out the apple cider vinegar or an online video tutorial, know this: home remedies often lead to scarring, infection, or incomplete removal, making things much worse for many. Dermatologists at Associates in Dermatology have safe, effective, and proven methods to remove moles, like surgical excision or laser treatments, ensuring a clean and safe finish. 

3. Protect your skin from the start.

Not all moles are influenced by sun exposure, but those that are can become darker and more prominent without proper protection. Make sunscreen a priority, and don’t shy away from large hats and long sleeves when spending significant time outdoors in the sun. 

4. Don’t fear the dermatologist.

The dermatologist’s office isn’t a scary place. A consultation appointment with our providers is straightforward, and mole removal procedures are often quick and relatively painless. Plus, checking your moles regularly ensures you’re catching any potential issues early on. Our team at Associates in Dermatology suggests annual skin cancer screenings and mole mapping to catch problems before they become more serious.

5. When in doubt, get it checked out

Maybe you should keep or remove a mole. A dermatologist can help you make that decision. They’ll look at your skin with a trained eye and possibly perform a biopsy if needed.