Mole Removal Methods

Moles come in a variety of different sizes, colours and shapes.  Depending on the type of your mole and what you can afford to spend on removal there are a number of mole removal methods available to you.  These range from home remedies to over the counter creams to surgery.  Before attempting any of the methods yourself it is vital that you determine that the mole you want removed is not cancerous.  This article will advise you on a number of non-cancerous mole removal methods.

Mole Removal Methods - Home Remedies

Home mole removal methods are very popular and are usually the first step in removing a mole if it is non-cancerous and the surgery is not covered on the NHS.  There are a large number of home remedies, with each using a different type of ingredient that can be found around the home such as pineapple juice, honey, garlic and apple cider vinegar.  There are hundreds of websites which can help you to choose the best home mole removal method for you and instructions on how to apply it.  These methods are the cheapest ones available to you, with most coming in at under £5.

Over the Counter Mole Removal Methods

Over the counter creams and oils, are the midrange price options when looking for a mole removal method.  Many of these creams are however acid based and so depending on the mole, you may end up with a rather unsightly scar after your mole has been removed.  The main over the counter creams and oils do have some very good reviews online though, so maybe speak to a dermatologist before heading down to the pharmacy.  These creams and oils range from around £20 to £50 and most come with a money back guarantee.

Surgery Mole Removal Methods

There are a number of different surgical mole removal methods, and the prices vary depending on the type of mole, where it is located and the clinic you choose.  Below are a few options available to you:

  • Shaving – this type of surgery is usually performed when the mole protrudes from the skin.  The mole is shaved until it reaches the normal skin level.  This method is okay if you want to keep the mole but do not want it protruding from the skin.  The root remains intact with this surgical removal method.
  • Excision – this is the usual method for cancerous moles as it involves cutting into the skin and removing the mole and the root.  A local anaesthetic is usually given before starting this procedure and stitches are used following surgery.
  • Cryosurgery – this is when a dermatologist freezes the mole away from the skin.  Again this is usually used for large moles that protrude from the skin.  Freezing does however cause the cells in the mole to burst, which kills the root of the mole and stops it from re-growing.

Laser therapy – this is one of the most expensive mole removal methods and can only be performed on small moles that are at skin level.  The laser causes the cells in the mole to burn thus destroying it.  Although very little scarring is caused by this mole removal method it is only effective on small moles with small roots.

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