Moles and warts are common skin concerns that affect people of all ages. While most are harmless, they can sometimes cause discomfort or self-consciousness—especially when they appear on visible areas like the face, neck, or hands. Fortunately, modern dermatology offers safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatments to remove moles and warts with little to no downtime.
Moles are clusters of pigmented skin cells that appear as small, dark brown spots. They can be present at birth or develop over time due to sun exposure or hormonal changes. Most moles are benign, but if you notice any changes in shape, size, or color, it’s important to have them checked by a dermatologist to rule out skin cancer.
Warts, on the other hand, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are non-cancerous skin growths that typically appear on the hands, feet, or genital area. Warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces, making timely treatment important.
Nevus of Ota is a type of dermal melanocytosis, presenting as bluish-grey or brownish discoloration on the face, typically affecting areas innervated by the ophthalmic and maxillary branches of the trigeminal nerve. It often appears around the eyes, cheeks, temples, or forehead and is more common in individuals with darker skin tones, especially women of Asian descent. The pigmentation lies deep within the dermis, making it distinctly different from a compound nevus, which involves both the epidermis and dermis and often appears as a raised mole.
Unlike compound nevi that may require surgical excision due to tissue proliferation, Nevus of Ota is best treated with Q-Switched NdYAG Laser. This advanced laser targets the pigment particles without damaging the surrounding tissue. The laser energy shatters the melanin deposits in the dermis, which are then gradually cleared by the body’s immune system.
Since the condition is pigment-based rather than tissue-based, treatment does not involve cutting or removing skin. Multiple sessions are typically required, and with each session, the pigmentation becomes progressively lighter, leading to a more even skin tone with minimal downtime and excellent safety.
While some moles and warts may not pose any health risk, people choose to remove them for several reasons:
Dermatologists offer a range of treatment options depending on the type, size, and location of the growth. Common procedures include:
This involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the abnormal tissue. It’s most commonly used for wart removal and may require multiple sessions.
Advanced laser technology targets the pigment in moles or the infected tissue in warts. Laser treatment is precise, minimally invasive, and ideal for delicate areas like the face.
A high-frequency electric current is used to burn and cut away the unwanted tissue. It’s effective for both moles and warts, with minimal scarring.
For larger or deeper moles, minor surgery under local anesthesia may be recommended. The mole is carefully cut out, and stitches are used to close the wound. The removed tissue can also be sent for lab analysis if needed.
In some cases, especially for common or plantar warts, topical solutions containing salicylic acid or other compounds may be prescribed. These gradually dissolve the growth over time.
Most mole removal and wart removal procedures are quick and performed on an outpatient basis. After treatment, mild redness, swelling, or scabbing may occur, but this usually resolves within a few days. It’s important to follow your dermatologist’s aftercare instructions to promote proper healing and avoid infection or scarring.
Know more frequently asked questions (FAQs) About Unwanted Moles or Warts.
Most mole removal and wart removal procedures are quick and cause minimal discomfort. Treatments like laser removal, cryotherapy, or minor excision are typically done under local anesthesia, making the process nearly painless. Mild soreness or redness may occur afterward but usually subsides within a few days.
Scarring depends on the size, location, and method of removal. Non-invasive treatments like laser or cryotherapy generally leave minimal or no scarring. Surgical removal may leave a small scar, but dermatologists take great care to minimize its appearance. Proper aftercare can also help reduce scarring.
Most patients experience complete healing within 7 to 14 days, depending on the type of treatment. Laser and cryotherapy heal faster, while surgical excision may take slightly longer. Your dermatologist will provide personalized aftercare instructions to promote faster healing.
In most cases, moles do not return once completely removed. However, warts can sometimes recur, especially if the virus that caused them (HPV) remains active in the skin. Follow-up treatments or immune-boosting measures may be recommended to prevent recurrence.
You should consider removal if a mole is changing in size, shape, or colour, becomes itchy or painful, bleeds, or has an irregular border. These may be signs of atypical or precancerous changes. A dermatologist can examine it and recommend the best course of action.
Home remedies or over-the-counter treatments are not recommended, especially for moles. Improper removal can lead to infection, scarring, or missed signs of skin cancer. Always consult a dermatologist for a safe and accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Not necessarily. Some warts, especially in children, may go away on their own. However, treatment is recommended if the wart is painful, spreading, or persistent, or if it’s causing cosmetic concerns or embarrassment.
At Arna Dermatology & Aesthetics, our skilled dermatologists use the latest technology and techniques to safely remove skin growths with precision and care. Book your consultation!
