Oncologist Debunks 10 Myths About Moles That Everyone Should Know
06.04.2023 08:15
Updated: 15.04.2023 02:41
Moles are growths on the skin that result from the development of skin cells containing melanin.
Although moles are a natural occurrence and can appear on anyone's skin, there are many myths that are worth understanding.
Myth #1: Removing moles is dangerous
One of the common myths about moles is that their removal is dangerous. However, this is a misconception.
It is dangerous to remove moles only if it is done without consulting an oncologist, the necessary additional examination (dermatoscopy) and in a non-specialized institution. This is especially important when it comes to potentially dangerous moles that have a risk of degenerating into a malignant tumor (skin cancer and melanoma).
Oncologist of the 1st category of the HappyDerm medical center Lyudmila Artyushkevich notes that it is much more dangerous to leave such moles where they are injured and wet, for example, on the palms, feet, head, neck and in skin folds. Therefore, if you have such moles, they must be removed in a special way, and the sooner the better, since this is one of the forms of cancer prevention.
Myth #2: It is not recommended to remove moles in the summer
Another myth about moles is that they should not be removed in the summer. In fact, this is a recommendation, not a ban. Doctors advise removing nevi in the fall or winter to avoid increased pigmentation from solar radiation.
However, in some cases, the operation must be performed regardless of the season. For example, if the mole increases in size, bleeds or is damaged.
Myth #3: Moles can be removed at home by yourself
This is extremely dangerous and is not recommended under any circumstances! It is impossible to determine which moles are dangerous and which are not without a professional examination and dermatoscopy.
If you try to remove a mole yourself, you may experience bleeding, infection, scarring, and, most importantly, the risk of it turning into a malignant tumor.
Myth #4: Mole removal is painful and leaves scars
Modern methods of removing moles are minimally invasive and do not leave significant scars if the operation is performed by an experienced surgeon. Pain during the procedure is eliminated by a local anesthetic. The recovery period after mole removal is usually short and takes several days.
Myth #5. Folk remedies help remove a mole without harming your health
In fact, all folk methods of removing moles are unscientific, and the use of radical and sophisticated methods can cause more harm to the mole.
It is important to remember that a nevus is a benign tumor that should be left alone and only if it becomes a concern should you contact a qualified specialist.
Myth #6: Laser is the best way to remove a mole
Laser removal of moles does not leave scars on the skin, and the procedure is quick. However, this method is not suitable for all cases, and the method of removal should be determined by a dermato-oncologist. In some cases, the condition and size of the mole may require a surgical approach.
Myth #7: Injuring a mole can lead to death from cancer
Skin cancer cannot enter the body through a scratch, but it is necessary to protect the wound from germs and stop the bleeding. To do this, treat the injury with a cotton swab soaked in hydrogen peroxide, and then apply dry gauze to the wound for half an hour.
If the bleeding does not stop, the wound should be treated with the antiseptic "Chlorhexidine" and sealed with a bactericidal plaster, and then contact a surgeon/oncologist. If the mole has come off, it should be wrapped in cotton wool or a bandage soaked in saline, and then given to a doctor for histological examination.
Myth #8: Lots of moles on the body are a sign of illness
The word "many" is ambiguous. However, when there are 75 or more moles on the body, the risk of developing melanoma - a malignant skin tumor - increases by 30%. To reduce the risk, it is necessary to limit sun exposure to 10-15 minutes and use sunscreen, as well as avoid solariums.
Myth #9: The appearance of a new mole indicates cancer
New moles may appear during periods of hormonal changes in the body, for example, during puberty, in women during pregnancy or menopause.
Myth #10. Moles that have changed color and shape are very dangerous
There is no reason to worry when moles change their shape or color once a year, several years, or even a decade. However, if they change over weeks or months, bleed, become wet, or the skin around them turns red, then you need to make an appointment for a comprehensive examination with a dermato-oncologist.
The HappyDerm medical center has all the necessary resources, including specialists (oncologists, dermatologists, surgeons) and equipment (dermatoscopes, laser equipment) for diagnosing and removing skin neoplasms.
