Everything You Should Know About Mole Removal

 Why a mole may need to be removed

Moles are common skin growths. You probably have more than one on your face and body. Most people have 10 to 40 moles somewhere on their skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Most moles are harmless and nothing to worry about. Unless a mole is cancerous, you don’t need to have it removed unless it bothers you. But if you don’t like the way it affects your appearance, or if it’s getting irritated from rubbing against your clothes, removing the mole is still an option.

The best way to know if a mole is cancerous is to see a dermatologist for an annual skin cancer screening. If you have a history of skin cancer, your dermatologist may recommend screening more often.

Meanwhile, you should schedule a checkup with your dermatologist if you notice any moles that:

  • are asymmetrical
  • have irregular borders
  • are not uniform in color
  • have a diameter that’s larger than a pencil eraser
  • are evolving or changing in size, shape, or color

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