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What are the Different Methods of Mole Removal?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

When it comes to removing moles, there are two basic approaches that may be used. The first approach is to see a doctor or dermatologist and have the moles removed surgically. Another alternative is to try home remedies that will remove moles without the use of any type of invasive procedure. Here are some examples of mole removal, including some of the reasons why you may want to consider each approach before making a decision.

Medical professionals use different methods to remove moles from different parts of the body. Depending on the size and location of the mole, a dermatologist or general practitioner may choose to cut or burn the mole, causing it to release from the skin. If the shape of the mole is somewhat irregular, the health care professional may feel that a quick surgical procedure is in order, so the mole can be forwarded for a biopsy. Fortunately, the surgery is minor and can be performed in the doctor’s office in most cases.

Raised skin mole.
Raised skin mole.

Laser removal has become a popular way for medical professionals to deal with moles. Using a laser is very exact and is much less likely to leave any scarring on the surface of the skin. One drawback to laser mole removal is that it is sometimes difficult to penetrate past the top layer of the epidermis. This means that a portion of the mole could remain and eventually grow back.

Flat skin mole.
Flat skin mole.

Along with mole removal under the care of a doctor, you can also consider using various types of home mole removal. While the efficacy of many of the folk remedies remains unproven, some people claim to experience excellent results using items that can be found in just about any pantry.

One home remedy calls for the use of honey. A small amount of non-processed honey is applied directly to the mole and covered with a bandage. The process is repeated daily. The enzymes in the honey help to break down the mole and gradually cause it to shrink and finally disappear. Folklore indicates this method should show results within three to five days.

A raised mole.
A raised mole.

A different mole removal method calls for the use of crushed garlic cloves. Mixed the juice from the clove with a small amount of baking soda to make a paste. Apply the paste to the mole, then cover with a bandage. As with the honey treatment, apply fresh paste each day.

Applying an acidic juice is also said to be an effective facial mole removal treatment that anyone can do at home. In most cases, grapefruit or lemon juice is recommended. Dip a cotton ball into the juice, and then apply liberally to the mole. Cover with a bandage, repeating the process twice daily for four or five days. The mole should begin to shrink and eventually fade from view.

There are also over the counter removal kits you can try. Most of them involve applying an ointment of some type one to three times daily. Most of these products claim that results will occur in a couple of days.

Because moles are not always benign, it is important to consult a doctor if the shape of the mole is uneven, or the texture is somewhat rough to the touch. Your doctor can evaluate the mole and decide the best course of treatment.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon209001

Thank you for a very informative site. You have answered a question that I certainly would have been too embarrassed to speak about. I have already started treatment using your suggested method. --Jeff.

anon201089

To anon155767: The best thing to do is to keep the bandage continuously, replacing the cotton ball three times a day. The other option is to leave the bandage overnight. Hope that helped.

anon155767

how long do you keep the bandage on for?

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    • Raised skin mole.
      Raised skin mole.
    • Flat skin mole.
      Flat skin mole.
    • A raised mole.
      By: paulandlara
      A raised mole.
    • Woman with a mole above her upper lip.
      By: donatellina
      Woman with a mole above her upper lip.
    • Some people apply raw honey to a mole as a way to remove it.
      By: Jaimie Duplass
      Some people apply raw honey to a mole as a way to remove it.
    • Dipping a cotton ball in acidic juice may be effective for facial mole removal.
      By: yotrakbutda
      Dipping a cotton ball in acidic juice may be effective for facial mole removal.
    • Many people opt to have their moles surgically removed.
      By: Fly_dragonfly
      Many people opt to have their moles surgically removed.
    • To remove a mole, doctors may cut or burn it off.
      By: Milissenta
      To remove a mole, doctors may cut or burn it off.
    • A mole removed with a laser could eventually grow back.
      By: bertys30
      A mole removed with a laser could eventually grow back.
    • Most patients do not feel any pain during laser mole removal.
      By: mkrberlin
      Most patients do not feel any pain during laser mole removal.