Skin Lump and Mole Removal

What are skin lumps/moles?

Skin lumps and moles are various types of growths that can appear on the skin. They can be superficial or deep in the skin layers. They range from pigmented lesions like moles to non pigmented ones like syringomas or sebaceous hyperplasia. While most skin lumps are benign and harmless, some can become bothersome or potentially lead to skin cancer.

What causes skin lumps/moles?

Skin lumps and moles can develop due to a variety of factors, each influencing their growth in different ways:

• Blocked oil glands or hair follicles: blocked oil glands or hair follicles lead to the accumulation of fluid, oil, or keratin beneath the skin's surface, resulting in the formation of a lump or cyst.
• Overgrowth of melanin: mole formation involves the proliferation and clustering of melanocytes in the skin, forming a pigmented lesion.

Who is at risk of skin lumps/moles in Singapore?

Factors that increase the risk of developing skin lumps and moles among Singaporeans include:

• Sun exposure: prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources, such as tanning beds, increases the risk of developing moles. Sun exposure during childhood and adolescence is also important in mole development.
• Genetics: Individuals with a family history of multiple moles or skin lumps have a higher risk of developing skin lumps or moles.
• Skin type: those with fairer skin are more susceptible to UV damage, increasing their risk of developing moles/certain skin lumps.
• Hormonal changes: hormonal fluctuations can influence the development and growth of moles. Hormonal changes can cause existing moles to darken, enlarge, or become more numerous.
• Personal history: individuals with previous moles or skin lumps are at increased risk of developing new ones.

What are the treatment options for skin lumps/moles in Singapore?

Astique Clinic offers a range of treatment options for skin lumps and moles:

• Monitoring: regular check-ups are recommended, especially for those with a higher risk of skin cancer.
• Laser treatment: Often used for cosmetic improvements and effective removal of benign lumps.

Astique Clinic in Singapore provides an ablative laser treatment, a minimally invasive option for removing skin lumps and moles. This procedure involves using a laser to remove or vaporise the growth by destroying its cells. This treatment can be particularly effective for moles, seborrhoeic keratoses, and other benign lumps, offering a smooth, scar-free outcome in many cases. The laser therapy can also be specific, minimising damage to the surrounding skin.

Frequently asked questions

How many sessions will I need to remove the skin lump/moleCan moles develop after sunburn?

1-2 sessions are usually required to remove the lesions depending on the size and depth. Yes, sunburn can stimulate the growth of new moles or changes in existing ones.

Are all dark skin lumps considered moles?

Not all dark lumps are moles; they could be melanomas, seborrhoeic keratoses, or other skin conditions.

How often should I check my moles?

It's recommended to check your skin monthly and have a dermatological exam annually or more frequently if you have high-risk factors.

What areis some red flags signs to take note about molesthe significance of a mole changing colour?

A mole that changes colour might be a sign of malignancy, and you should have it evaluated by a healthcare provider immediately. This ABCDE chart helps to identify melanoma warning signs by assessing Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter,  and Evolution of the mole.