Say Goodbye to Moles & Skin Tags: Everything You Need to Know

Are you considering having a mole or skin tag removed? Whether for cosmetic reasons or due to health concerns, understanding the process and options available is crucial. At Ensoul, we specialize in professional mole removal in Calgary, offering safe and effective solutions tailored to your needs.

What Are Moles and Skin Tags?

Moles are clusters of pigmented cells that appear as small, dark spots on the skin. They can be flat or raised and vary in color from pink to dark brown. Most moles are harmless, but some can develop into melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Moles can appear anywhere on the body, either individually or in groups. While many people have moles from birth, new moles can develop throughout life, especially during periods of hormonal changes such as adolescence or pregnancy.

Skin tags are small, soft growths that typically occur in areas where the skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. They are benign and usually painless but can become irritated by clothing or jewelry. Skin tags, or acrochordons, are composed of a core of fibers and ducts, nerve cells, fat cells, and a covering or epidermis. They are often associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes, and their formation can be triggered by hormonal changes during pregnancy.

Why Remove Moles and Skin Tags?

1. Cosmetic Concerns: Moles and skin tags can be unsightly, especially if they are in visible areas. Removing them can improve appearance and boost self-confidence. This is particularly true for moles and skin tags on the face, neck, or hands, which are always on display.

2. Discomfort: Skin tags can cause discomfort or irritation when rubbed against clothing or accessories. This irritation can lead to inflammation, bleeding, or infection, particularly if the skin tag is in an area that experiences a lot of friction.

3. Health Precautions: While most moles are benign, some may require removal and biopsy to rule out skin cancer. Melanoma can develop in an existing mole or appear as a new mole. It’s crucial to monitor moles for changes in size, shape, or color and to consult a healthcare professional if any changes occur.

Mole Removal Techniques

At Ensoul, we offer various mole removal techniques to ensure you receive the best care for your specific needs. Our methods include:

Excision: This involves cutting out the mole and stitching the skin back together. It’s commonly used for larger or potentially cancerous moles. The procedure involves numbing the area with a local anesthetic, making an incision around the mole, and removing it along with a small margin of surrounding skin. The wound is then closed with stitches, which will be removed or dissolve on their own, depending on the type used.

Shave Removal: The mole is shaved off flush with the surrounding skin. This technique is typically used for smaller, raised moles. A small blade is used to shave the mole off at the skin level, and the area is then cauterized to stop any bleeding. This method usually leaves a minimal scar.

Laser Removal: A laser beam is used to break down the mole’s pigment. This is a non-invasive option with minimal scarring. Laser removal is particularly effective for flat, pigmented moles. The heat from the laser breaks down the mole cells, which are then absorbed by the body.

Skin Tag Removal Methods

Cryotherapy: The skin tag is frozen off using liquid nitrogen. This method is quick and minimally invasive. The liquid nitrogen causes the cells in the skin tag to freeze and die, after which the skin tag will fall off within a few days.

Cauterization: The skin tag is burned off using a small electric current. This method involves using a cautery device to burn the skin tag, which destroys the tissue and prevents bleeding.

Excision: Similar to mole removal, the skin tag is cut off with a scalpel. This is often done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.

What to Expect During the Procedure

When you visit Ensoul for mole removal in Calgary, you can expect a thorough consultation where we discuss your concerns and determine the best treatment plan. During the consultation, we will evaluate the mole or skin tag, review your medical history, and discuss your preferences and expectations.

Aftercare and Recovery

Keep the Area Clean: Gently clean the area with soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing the area.

Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect the treated area from the sun to prevent scarring. Use a high-SPF sunscreen if you need to be outdoors.

Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: Adhere to any specific aftercare guidelines provided by your practitioner. This may include applying antibiotic ointment, keeping the area covered with a bandage, and avoiding strenuous activities that could strain the treated area.

Healing times can vary depending on the removal method and the size of the mole or skin tag. In general, most people can expect the treated area to heal within one to two weeks. It’s important to monitor the area for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus, and to contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Why Choose Ensoul?

At Ensoul, we pride ourselves on providing expert care in a comfortable and professional environment. Our team is dedicated to ensuring the best outcomes for our clients, using the latest techniques and technology in mole and skin tag removal. Our practitioners are experienced and skilled in diagnosing and treating a variety of skin conditions, ensuring that you receive personalized care tailored to your needs.

We understand that the thought of mole or skin tag removal can be daunting, but our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way. From the initial consultation to post-procedure follow-up, we are committed to providing a seamless and reassuring experience.