New Moles Appearing On The Face: What Should You Do?
Moles are a common occurrence on the human body. They typically pose little threat and develop naturally over time. However, when new moles start to develop on the face, it might be a cause for concern.
Understanding the potential implications and knowing what steps to take are essential for maintaining your skin health. In this article, we will discuss what you should do when new moles start appearing on your face.
Why do new moles appear on the face?
The reasons why new moles appear on the face might vary. Some of the main factors that influence their development are as follows:
1. Sun exposure
Overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the main factors that lead to the development of new moles. The development of new moles on the face might be sparked by prolonged, uncovered sun exposure.
2. Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes, especially those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, might encourage the development of new moles. These changes affect the body’s melanocytes, the cells that create the pigmented melanin that gives skin and moles their color.
3. Genetics
Your likelihood of developing new moles is significantly influenced by your genetic predisposition. So, if you have a family history of numerous moles, your chances of developing new ones on your face are higher.
4. Age
As we age, the likelihood of developing new moles increases. This is because the body’s cells undergo various changes over time, including the formation of new moles.
What should you do?
It’s crucial to address your skin health proactively if you see new moles developing on your face. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Regular Self-Examination
By regularly inspecting your skin, you can spot any changes in your moles or the emergence of new ones. In particular, the ABCDEs of melanoma—asymmetry, uneven borders, color changes, diameter, and evolution—should be closely observed.
2. Document changes
Keep documentation of any changes you see in your moles, including their appearance, size, and any other details. When self-monitoring or addressing problems with a professional, this documentation might be helpful.
3. Protect yourself from the sun
Limiting your exposure to the sun is essential for preventing the development of new moles and lowering your chance of developing skin cancer. When the sun is at its peak, wear protective clothing and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
4. Seek professional evaluation
It is advised to visit a professional if you observe any alarming changes in your moles. They can evaluate the moles and decide whether treatment, including removal, is required.
Get your moles professionally removed by The Clifford Clinic
As a leading aesthetic clinic, our doctors are experienced in performing raised and flat mole removal. Our multidisciplinary team will ensure that you have access to the greatest care, treatment, and attention. We can even assist you in identifying, evaluating, and diagnosing skin cancer in its early stages so that you can begin treatment as soon as possible with the support of the pathology labs at Singapore General Hospital.
At The Clifford Clinic, we offer two key surgical mole removal methods:
- Shave excision: This method involves delicately shaving down the top of the mole using a knife. It is a fantastic alternative for moles that are elevated because it doesn’t require any stitches. It takes between one to two weeks for the scab to fully heal.
- Surgical excision: After administering local anesthetic, the doctor will remove the entire mole as well as any deeper moles that are located below the subcutaneous fat layer. Compared to a shave excision, it is a little more intrusive, and sutures are needed to heal the incision. After around 10 to 14 days, the sutures are then removed.
The location, depth, and characteristics of your mole will determine the best course of treatment for you. The most effective treatment for malignant moles that have penetrated the epidermis is surgical removal, which is also the best method for detecting aggressive and advanced skin cancer cases.
Alternatively, you may also opt for laser therapies like the V-beam laser. V-beam laser is a popular acne scar treatment in Singapore that may also treat vascular or pigmentation lesions. Essentially, this laser therapy targets the haemoglobin in the blood to destroy the pigmentation from the inside out.
Besides mole removal, we also offer treatments for hormonal acne, acne scars, pigmentation, hair transplant in Singapore and many more.
Contact us today for more information.