If you have a few, but very noticeable, common moles on your face, you may be inclined to remove the moles yourself. One of the DIY treatments you might try to remove your moles with is apple cider vinegar. Although apple cider vinegar may have some health benefits, the condiment may not be safe or effective for your moles or skin. Learn why apple cider vinegar isn't a good mole removal treatment and what you should really do about your moles below.
Is Apple Cider Vinegar Safe for Your Moles or Skin?
Moles develop when pigmented skin cells group together (or cluster) in the skin. Most moles are common, or noncancerous. Although common moles are harmless, they can make some adults feel unsettled about their appearance, especially if the growths show up on the nose, lip, or cheek. Individuals may try to remove their moles with at-home treatments, such as apple cider vinegar.
A number of people use apple cider vinegar to "burn" off, dissolve, or fade their moles. However, apple cider vinegar contains a strong byproduct called acetic acid, which may not be safe to inhale or place on your skin. The acid has the potential to chemically damage, erode, or scar your skin if used for long periods of time.
While it may be tempting to remove your moles at home with vinegar, don't. See a dermatologist for professional mole removal treatment instead.
How Does Professional Mold Removal Treatment Benefit You?
Before a dermatologist removes your moles, they'll check the growths for cancer. Although it's rare, some common moles can become cancerous (or malignant) over time. If your moles don't contain cancerous cells, a dermatologist will take steps to treat the growths on your face.
The mole removal treatments or methods used by dermatologists can vary from doctor to doctor. However, the most common methods used today include surgical excision and surgical shave. The surgical excision method is generally used on moles that are deeply seated or placed within the skin. The surgical shave method is commonly used on superficial moles or growths that sit closer to the surface of the skin.
Depending on the results of your treatment, you may or may not need to return to the office or medical facility for a follow-up visit. For instance, if the surgical sites on your face heal successfully, you may not need to return for additional treatment. But if you experience discomfort in the surgical sites or another problem with your skin, contact a dermatologist immediately for additional care.
If you want safe mole removal, contact a dermatologist for an appointment today.