How to Prevent Scars From Mole Removal

If you have a mole you dislike, your dermatologist can remove it via excision or laser treatment. Your dermatologist will choose the best method of removal for your particular mole, depending on its size, shape and color. If the mole is at all suspect, it will be biopsied to confirm it is not cancerous. Generally, when you have a mole removed, a scar will remain in its place. There are, however, many things you can do to prevent scarring after mole removal.

Things You'll Need

• Moisturizer
• Scar treatment cream
• Sunscreen
• Vitamin E

Instructions

1. Follow your dermatologist's aftercare instructions. Your dermatologist will likely provide you with specific instructions regarding skincare after your mole removal. If you had stitches, you'll need to keep the area covered until the stitches are removed. You'll also need to keep the area clean and free of bacteria.

2. Moisturize your skin. Dry skin is much more susceptible to scarring. Keep your skin supple and pliable by hydrating it with moisturizer daily.

3. Apply scar treatment cream. Most scar treatment creams contain natural ingredients such as onion extract which work to prevent and treat scars. Apply the cream two to three times daily for at least 12 weeks to prevent scarring.

4. Massage the area. Daily massage increases circulation. This means that necessary blood and nutrients can reach the area more easily, adequately fortifying it against scarring. Use firm pressure to massage the area daily for at least two minutes.

5. Wear sunscreen. Since the sun's rays damage the skin, they delay the healing process and increase the likelihood of scarring. Apply a high SPF sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays to the area daily, regardless of the weather.

6. Puncture a Vitamin E capsule and squeeze the contents onto the area. Vitamin E is essential to skin health and nourishes the skin when applied topically. By strengthening your skin, Vitamin E will discourage it from scarring.

Tips & Warnings

• Eat a healthy diet. Proper nutrition is key to overall skin health.

• Avoid intense physical movements after mole removal. Give your skin time to heal before vigorously stretching the area.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish