There are several types of moles sometimes referred to as a Nevus or Nevi. These moles are benign, meaning that they are non-cancerous skin growths. Most are typically symmetrical with a rounded shape and a smooth edge. Dermal moles or nevi are usually raised, pale, and sometimes hairy. They are common on the face, especially around the nose. Junctional melanocytic moles/nevi are usually brown, round and flat. Compound or common moles/nevi are usually raised above the skin, light brown, and sometimes hairy.  An atypical mole/Nevi also known as dysplastic nevi, describes an unusual-looking mole with one such example being Blue moles/nevi which have a dark blue colour. A blue nevus may be present at birth or develop as a person ages.

It is important to consult a doctor if a mole’s appearance changes or if it becomes painful or bleeds.

Only moles fitting the following criteria can be treated;

• The mole is no bigger than about the size of a blunt end of a pencil

• It is more than 2 years old (not new)

• It is a regular circular size and shape 

• It is not bleeding, flaking or itching

• There is no inflammation or changing in size

• It is not showing any pigmentation on the surrounding skin or have any black areas or red edges

Seborrheic keratosis/warts  are common non-cancerous (benign) skin growths. People tend to get more of them as they get older. They are usually brown, black or light tan. The growths look waxy or scaly and slightly raised. They appear gradually, usually on the face, neck, chest or back. They don't need treatment, but you may decide to have them removed if they become irritated by clothing or you don't like how they look.

Both skin conditions will require a letter from your GP or a Dermatologist confirming the diagnosis of a benign mole or seborrheic keratosis/wart. 

If you are looking for a quick and effective solution in Flintshire area of North Wales, then both Cryotherapy or Advanced Electrolysis are effective treatments. 

Cryotherapy using nitrous oxide is a proven method to safely remove unwanted moles or seborrheic keratosis. This advanced treatment is not only faster than other methods but also minimises the risk of scarring. The procedure is designed for your comfort, with only a slight stinging sensation during treatment. To ensure an effective result some moles/keratosis may require more than one treatment session to be removed, especially if you have had it a long time. 

Following treatment to a mole/nevus, the area will inflamed but this should reduce over 1-2 hours. Over 4-weeks the mole will darken and scab will form. You may find that this drops off in sections. The new skin will be pink and shiny, this is not scar tissue and will fade to a normal colour over 4-6 weeks. It is crucial that you apply factor 50 sunblock during this healing time. If your mole is on your forehead/temples, it is common for you to experience a short headache, like "brain freeze" during the procedure. 

Following treatment to an area of seborrheic keratosis, it may swell up in size, become a bit red and itchy or it may even blister.  This can last for 1-2 weeks. It will then crust over and fall off over the next 2-4 weeks. For most people the area heals without any scarring, but there is always a risk of developing a pale white patch (hypopigmentation) at the treated area. Sometimes the Seborrheic keratosis does not respond to treatment with cryotherapy, particularly with thicker ones. In this situation, it may need to be removed by surgery or electrolysis. 

During your initial consultation you will be provided with a personalised treatment plan with an estimated cost. 

Advanced electrolysis is also a safe and effective way to remove moles/seborrhoeic keratosis, which uses an electric current through a very fine needle inserted directly into the surface of the mole/seborrhoeic keratosis, softening the lesion, which is then scraped away and the skin cauterised to allow a scab to form. The skin will appear smoother immediately  but there will be a small open wound in place of the lesion. A waterproof dressing will be applied which should remain in place for 2-3 days. A scab will form but which should be left to come away of its own accord. A follow up treatment may be required. 

Local anaesthetic will be injected or applied, subject to suitability, therefore the treatment will be painless. 

As with any cut or wound, there is a low risk of scarring, especially if the wound becomes infected or the scab is picked. The area will remain red until completely healed, as with any other surgical wound or cut/graze. Some aftercare restrictions apply due to open wound being present.

During your initial consultation you will be provided with a personalised treatment plan with an estimated cost. 

Take the first step towards smoother skin today - book your consultation at our North Wales clinic within Bank Beauty in Hawarden  and enjoy professional, friendly care tailored to your needs.