Moles and benign skin lesions
There are many skin lesions which are benign but are troublesome or cosmetically sensitive.
- Mole:
It is normal to get new moles up to the age of about 25. Moles are usually harmless but can rarely develop into a skin cancer. Moles should be protected from the sun just as all skin should be protected from the sun. However melanoma develops in normal skin as much as it does in moles so there is no point in removing moles to prevent melanoma, unless there has been a change or it itches or bleeds, or unless it has suspicious features (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour is uneven, Diameter larger than 6mm). Moles can be removed by shaving or excising, but unless it really bothers you or is suspicious or changing, can be left alone. - Solar keratoses:
Usually a scaly or spiky skin spot. Can rarely develop into skin cancer. Treatment is usually by freezing or curettage, but some creams can be helpful. - Seborrhoeic keratoses:
Roughened waxy areas that look like they are "stuck on" the skin. Can be successfully removed by freezing if thin, or curettage if thicker. - Lipomas:
Lumps under the skin that slip out from under the finger when pressed on the edge. Can be removed through a very small incision. - Cysts:
Lumps that are usually in the skin. They can get infected. They can be excised.
There are many other skin lesions, and your family doctor is best to guide you. Remember that removal of any skin lesion can leave a mark, so be sure you want it off.