Understanding Why Moles Appear and Why They Recur Even After Removal.

Having moles on the face is common for many people, but it is not unusual for moles to reappear even after removal procedures at a dermatologist's office. In this post, we will explore why moles keep reappearing, their causes, and possible solutions in detail.

 

How Moles Form

To understand moles, we need to know about nevus cells. Nevus cells are the cells that form moles, gathering in specific areas to create moles. Based on the location of these nevus cells, moles are generally classified into three types.

Junctional Nevi

Junctional nevi form at the junction between the dermis and epidermis. They typically appear as flat, light brown to black spots with a diameter of 1-5mm, featuring a smooth surface without hair. Over time, these moles can move deeper into the skin, transforming into compound or intradermal nevi.

Compound Nevi

Compound nevi are formed when nevus cells cluster at the epidermal-dermal junction, with some cells extending into the dermis. They can have a smooth or warty surface, sometimes with coarse hair.

Intradermal Nevi

Intradermal nevi have all nevus cells located deep within the dermis. These are common in adults and usually appear as raised, dome-shaped moles. Their color can range from skin-toned to black, and they often have hair.

 

It is common for moles to reappear after removal. This usually happens because the nevus cells were not completely removed.

 

Causes of Mole Recurrence After Removal

When undergoing mole removal procedures, it is crucial to completely eliminate the nevus cells. However, if nevus cells remain deep within the dermis, they can proliferate and form new moles. Sometimes, these recurring moles can be larger than before.

Epidermal Moles

Small, black moles usually reside in the epidermis, making them relatively easy to remove. These moles often appear later in life and do not have deep roots. They can be easily removed with laser treatments.

Dermal Moles

On the other hand, raised moles have deeper roots, making them harder to remove. Attempting to remove these moles indiscriminately can lead to scarring. Therefore, it is important to shave off the mole evenly according to the skin layer. In cases where complete removal is unnecessary, pigment erasure methods can be used. For example, brown or white spots on the face and skin can be treated with pigment lasers to remove the color.

 

Importance of Timing in Mole Removal

Choosing the right time for mole removal is also crucial. It is recommended to undergo laser removal procedures after puberty. Before puberty, the sebaceous glands are less developed, which can hinder skin regeneration and increase the likelihood of scarring after laser treatment.

 

Post-Procedure Care

To ensure the treated area heals like normal skin, post-procedure care is essential. Here are some tips for managing your skin after mole removal.

Using Regenerative Tapes

After the procedure, it is advisable to apply regenerative tapes to the treated area. These tapes should be worn for 4-5 days, during which time it is best to avoid saunas, steam rooms, and swimming pools. Regenerative tapes help protect the wound and promote faster healing.

Sun Protection

After removing the regenerative tape, applying sunscreen diligently is crucial. Sunscreen prevents pigmentation in the healing area. Exposure to UV rays can darken the mole removal site, so applying sunscreen before going outdoors is essential.

 

Conclusion

It is common for moles to reappear after removal. This usually happens because the nevus cells were not completely removed. Therefore, it is important to have mole removal procedures performed by an experienced specialist, and to follow thorough post-procedure care, including using regenerative tapes and applying sunscreen, to prevent recurrence.

 

Before removing a mole, it is essential to consider the type and location of the mole, as well as the possibility of recurrence. By doing so, you can maintain clear skin even after mole removal. Understanding mole recurrence and proper management will help you maintain healthier and clearer skin.