There are many treatments available to remove a mole, tags, and cherry angiomas. By far the quickest and most effective of all is the laser treatment, which involves a laser device. With it, doctors target and break down the pigmented cells that make up the mole.
Before moving on to explain the procedure, let’s discover different types of moles and if they are dangerous.
Types of Moles
Different types of moles and tags are observed
- Junctional Mole
The brown or dark coloured spots that appear at the junction where the epidermis (outer layer of skin) and dermis (inner layer of skin) meet are known as junctional mole.
- Compound Mole
The slightly raised tan, brown, or dark coloured spots are compound moles. They have pigmented cells that can be present both, at the junction and within the dermis.
- Dermal Mole
Like compound moles, these are typically raised and have a flesh-coloured appearance. They also consist of pigmented cells, but the only difference is that they are primarily located within the dermis layer.
- Blue Nevus
The bluish-gray or blue-black-coloured pigmentation on the surface that appears flat or may be slightly raised is Blue Nevi. It is caused because of pigmented cells that form within the skin.
- Congenital Mole
Congenital moles are present at birth or appear shortly after. They can vary in size, shape, and colour, and may develop into different types of moles over time.
- Dysplastic Nevus
Dysplastic nevi, also known as atypical moles, are irregularly in shape and larger than normal moles. They may have uneven borders, varied colours, and can resemble melanoma. These moles have a higher risk of developing into skin cancer.
- Cherry Angiomas
Also known as Campbell de Morgan spots or senile angiomas, cherry angiomas are common benign skin growths. These can be characterized by small, smooth, cherry-red or bright red papules. They typically look like a pinhead or a quarter of an inch in diameter. They can also occur on other areas such as the arms, legs, neck, and face. However, these are generally harmless and do not require medical treatment unless they cause discomfort or bleeding due to injury or clothing friction. If there is any discomfort in it, the laser treatment for angiomas can help.
The main reason of their appearance is the clustering of dilated capillaries, which are tiny blood vessels close to the skin’s surface. The exact cause is not fully understood, but they are believed to be linked to genetic factors and age-related changes in blood vessels.
If there are any concerns or if the growths become bothersome, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and guidance.
In the nutshell, you should understand that most moles are harmless. But, it’s crucial to monitor them for any changes in size, shape, color, or other concerning characteristics. If you see any irritation or changes, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist for quick monitoring and appropriate guidance.
Laser Treatment Procedure for Mole Removal
However, there are different products used at every step of this treatment. The given below refers to the most common procedure for mole or angiomas removal.
- Consultation
This is crucial to first have a consultation with a dermatologist or a qualified healthcare professional. He or she will assess the mole, determine its characteristics, and decide if laser removal is treatable.
- Preparation
Before the treatment, the preparation is done by certified a doctor or nurse. It requires proper cleaning and the application of a local anesthetic to numb the area. It helps in minimizing discomfort during the procedure.
- Laser Treatment
With the help of a laser device, a concentrated beam of light is emitted. It specifically targets the pigmented cells in the mole. The introduction of laser energy heats and breaks down the cells, allowing the body to naturally eliminate them over time.
- Post-treatment Care
Once the doctor is done with the procedure, the patient should keep the treated area clean. It’s good if he or she applies ointment or dresses the area to promote healing. Besides, it’s crucial to follow the post-treatment instructions. To know about them, follow the suggestions of your healthcare professional.
Side Effects
Regarding side effects, there are several factors, such as the size and location of the mole, as well as individual skin sensitivity that can cause side effects. Temporarily, potential side effects may be there, which can be the following:
- Redness
The emission of laser beams may leave the treated area red and irritated immediately after the procedure. Fortunately, this typically subsides within a few days.
- Swelling
Some swelling or mild inflammation can be seen. But, it usually settles down on its own.
- Scarring
There are rare cases wherein laser mole removal can lead to scarring. Mostly, the cause can be ignoring instructions. Therefore, it’s important to follow post-treatment care instructions to minimize the risk of scarring.
- Pigmentation Changes
Laser mole removal treatment may cause temporary or permanent changes in skin pigmentation. This can be witnessed through the lightening or darkening of the treated area.
It’s essential to consult with a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific case, discuss potential risks and side effects, and provide personalized advice and treatment options based on your needs.
Conclusion
Laser treatment is commonly used for the removal of moles and angiomas. The procedure involves using focused laser beams to target and destroy the pigment or blood vessels that make up the mole or angioma. With the laser energy, the targeted cells are heated and destroyed, allowing the body to naturally eliminate them over time. However, the effectiveness and speed of removal can vary depending on factors such as the size, depth, and location of the mole. It’s important to consult with a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional who can assess your specific condition and determine the most suitable treatment option for you.