Moles are common skin growths that many of us learn to ignore—but when one becomes irritating, unsightly, or suspicious, you may wonder whether you should remove it yourself. Don’t. While online videos and mole removal products make DIY mole removal look easy, the reality is much riskier. Whether your concern is cosmetic or medical, mole removal is a procedure best left to trained professionals.

In this post, we’ll explain why at-home mole removal is dangerous, how to know when a mole should be removed, and why professional care is always the safer choice.

What Are Moles?

Moles—technically called nevi—are clusters of pigment-producing skin cells. They often appear as small, round or oval spots that are:

• Tan, brown, or black in colour
• Flat or slightly raised
• Smooth or rough in texture
• Located anywhere on the body

Most moles are benign (non-cancerous) and don’t pose a health threat. However, some may develop into melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer. That’s why it’s essential to monitor your moles over time and have them evaluated by a doctor if anything changes.

When Should a Mole Be Removed?

Moles may be removed for either medical or cosmetic reasons.

A mole should be professionally evaluated and possibly removed if it:

• Changes in size, shape, colour, or texture
• Begins to itch, bleed, or crust
• Looks noticeably different from your other moles

These changes can be triggered by hormonal shifts (like puberty or pregnancy), but they may also be early signs of skin cancer. Always err on the side of caution.

Moles may also be removed if they:

• Cause irritation (e.g., rubbing on clothing or accessories)
• Appear in a high-visibility area, like the face or neck

If you’re unsure, consult a qualified medical provider for a skin check.

What Are the Methods for Mole Removal at Home?

Many people are tempted to try at-home mole removal methods, such as:

• Over-the-counter mole removal creams that claim to “burn off” the mole using acids or herbal ingredients.
• Cutting or shaving off a mole with scissors, razors, or knives.
• Burning the mole with chemicals or hot objects.

While these approaches may sound convenient, they can be highly dangerous and are NOT recommended.

What Are the Risks of At-Home Mole Removal?

Attempting to remove a mole yourself can lead to a range of serious complications, including:

• Infection: Breaking the skin without sterile tools or medical supervision increases the risk of bacteria entering the wound.
• Scarring: Without proper technique or aftercare, home removal can leave a noticeable scar—often worse than the original mole.
• Excessive bleeding: Moles can be vascular, and cutting too deep may lead to uncontrolled bleeding.
• Delayed cancer diagnosis: If you remove a mole that’s actually melanoma, you risk missing the early signs of cancer and delaying treatment.
• Allergic reactions or burns: Mole removal creams may contain harsh chemicals that damage the surrounding skin.

The safest course of action is always to have a mole evaluated and removed by a medical professional.

Why Professional Mole Removal Is Always the Best Choice

When it comes to your skin, don’t take unnecessary risks. Here’s why mole removal by a licensed plastic surgeon or dermatologist is the safest, most effective option:

• Expert evaluation: Your provider can assess whether the mole is benign, precancerous, or suspicious—and recommend the appropriate treatment.
• Minimally invasive technique: Surgeons use small, precise incisions to reduce scarring and discomfort.
• Biopsy capability: If there’s any concern, the removed mole can be sent for testing to confirm whether it’s cancerous.
• Sterile environment: Procedures are done under medical-grade conditions, significantly reducing infection risk.

You only get one skin—trust it to someone who’s trained to protect it.

Request a Consultation

If you’d like to speak with a Royal College-certified plastic surgeon at The Center for Minor Surgery about mole removal treatment, aftercare, and estimated costs, please call our Toronto office at (416) 663-9649 or request a consultation online.

This blog post was originally written in March 2023 and has been updated.