Caring for a shaved mole

Keeping the area moist may help relieve itching. Your doctor may use a scalpel to cut the mole out of your skin and then close the excision site with sutures, or he may shave the mole off the surface of your skin, creating only a small wound.

How to Care for

Avoid harsh scrubbing. Apply an antibiotic ointment to your wound after cleaning, and then cover with a sterile bandage. Return to normal activities immediately following your procedure. Tests for melanoma skin cancer. If your doctor closed your wound with sutures, follow your aftercare instructions regarding whether you can get your wound wet.

Mole Removal What to

Whether you have surgical excision or shaving to remove a mole, the procedure is quick and shouldn’t hurt once the area is numb. Once your doctor removes the mole, they may sew up the area to facilitate faster healing, wrap it in a bandage to protect it, and provide detailed aftercare instructions.

Although this guide is not a substitute for a professional, board-certified dermatologist’s guidelines, here’s what you should know about taking care of your skin after having a mole removed, whether through surgical excision or laser removal. Moles can also be removed for cosmetic reasons.

Written by Sandra Ketcham. Clean the area: Rinse gently with lukewarm water and mild soap to remove any hair clippings and bacteria. American Cancer Society.

A Comprehensive Guide Mole

Whether your mole was removed for cosmetic reasons or due to medical concerns, proper mole removal aftercare is crucial for optimal healing, minimal scarring, and preventing complications. Most patients can return home immediately, provided they don’t experience dizziness or discomfort following the procedure.

Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, as needed. If your wound is located on a joint, such as the elbow or knee, movement may be uncomfortable due to pulling on the wound or on your sutures. Moles: Who gets and types.

Care of Skin After

Unlike other methods like excision, which is designed to cut deeper into the skin and requires stitches, shave removal only treats the top layers of the skin. This leaves a flat wound that heals naturally without any stitches. Sandra Ketcham has nearly two decades of experience writing and editing for major websites and magazines.

If you have a mole that concerns you or are considering mole removal, schedule a consultation with your provider at Duncan Dermatology. Common moles, dysplastic nevi, and the risk of melanoma. More Articles. Most moles are harmless, but your healthcare provider might recommend removing a mole if it looks suspicious.

Post Mole Removal Care

Knowing how to care for your skin following mole removal will prevent infection, speed healing and reduce the likelihood of scarring 2. Updated April 27, American Academy of Dermatology. Moles: Overview. Mole removal involves the excision of a mole, or melanocytic nevus, for biopsy or for cosmetic reasons 1 2.

They can assess your individual needs and discuss the best course of action for mole removal and aftercare. As your wound heals, it may itch. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, often in a dermatologist's office.

How to Care for

Limiting your use of the affected joint for a day or two is typically sufficient to alleviate discomfort. Clean your wound twice each day with diluted hydrogen peroxide or an antibacterial soap and water. Avoid scratching or rubbing your wound during recovery.

Stop the bleeding: Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze for several minutes until bleeding slows down or stops. Cosmetic Surgery Guide states that discomfort following mole removal is generally mild and varies depending on the type of procedure performed 1 2.