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Moles and skin tags are tissue growths that many experience at some point. While they are usually not a cause for concern, some individuals may choose to have them removed for personal, cosmetic and other reasons. In Singapore, various treatment options are available to ensure safe mole and skin tag removal.
If you're considering this procedure, learn more about your options and the associated risks and benefits.
Moles are groups of pigmented skin cells that form dark spots or raised growths on the skin and may have hair. They can appear anywhere on the body and vary in size, shape, and colour. Some people are born with moles (congenital naevus), while others develop them over time (acquired naevus) from sun exposure, hormonal changes, or genetic factors. Moles can remain the same throughout your life or evolve, which may then require medical attention. They can be further classified based on their depth into junctional, compound and intradermal naevi.
Do not cross the dermal-epidermal junction, appears dark brown to black, flat
Compound naevi: involve the epidermis and dermis, appear dark brown, raised.
Involves the dermis, appears skin coloured, raised
Skin tags are small, benign growths that hang off the skin by a thin stalk (pedunculated). They are often found in friction areas, where the skin rubs against each other, such as the neck, underarms, groin, eyelids, or under the breasts. Although skin tags are harmless, they can sometimes irritate or catch on clothing, causing discomfort or bleeding. Skin tags are made up of loosely arranged collagen fibres and blood vessels surrounded by a thickened epidermis.
Warts are harmless skin growths caused by a virus (Human Papilloma Virus), which appear as raised, irregular lesions on any part of the body (often the hands, feet and face). Warts are contagious and may spread to other parts of the body or to other individuals. They are not cancerous although they can become painful or bleed.
Seborrheic keratosis is a degenerative skin lesion commonly seen in older individuals, with a raised plaque-like appearance. They may be skin coloured or pigmented. They occur throughout the body and may occur in groups of variable size. Seborrheic keratosis is a benign condition, although it may closely resemble skin cancer and the sudden appearance of multiple lesions is associated with gastric cancer.
Sebaceous hyperplasia refers to enlarged oil glands seen on the forehead or cheeks of middle-aged and older adults. Sebaceous hyperplasia appears as persistent raised yellowish lumps up to 3 mm in diameter. These lesions are benign although they may appear similar to basal cell skin cancer.
Reasons for mole or skin tag removal can be remembered as the 3 Cs: Cosmetic, Comfort and Cancer
Cosmetic
Moles or skin tags in visible areas, such as the face or neck, can affect a person’s appearance and confidence. Removing these growths can improve their overall appearance and self-esteem.
Comfort
Moles and skin tags that are raised may become caught in clothing or bleed during shaving, causing discomfort and irritation. Hence, they should be removed to improve comfort.
Cancer
Skin cancers may appear like a harmless mole or skin tag to the layperson. Where there is a personal or family history of skin cancer, risk factors for the development of skin cancers or certain suspicious features in the mole or skin tag such as a recent change in size, shape and colour, removal of the mole or skin tag for biopsy would potentially allow for early detection and treatment of skin cancer.
Most moles and skin tags are benign, but it's still essential to recognise signs that may indicate skin cancer. Using the ABCDE criteria can help you assess moles that require medical attention:
If you notice these characteristics, consult a doctor immediately for a professional evaluation. Early detection is important to prevent the progression of skin cancer.
1
Skin type, fair skin types (ie Caucasians) are at higher risk of skin cancer
2
UV exposure, sun damage, radiation exposure
3
Family or personal history of skin cance
4
Smoking and carcinogen exposure
5
ultiple moles, atypical moles
Mole and skin tag removal in Singapore is performed by medical professionals such as aesthetic doctors, dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Appropriate postgraduate training, experience and equipment is essential.
Electrocautery and laser removal are two of the most common methods for removing moles and skin tags. These minimally invasive procedures are known for their precision and ability to achieve excellent cosmetic results with minimal downtime. This is the preferred treatment option for smaller (<3mm) and flat moles and skin tags and when there is no suspicion of skin cancer.
Electrocautery
Electrocautery uses heat generated by an electric current to remove unwanted growths. A fine, heated electrode is applied to the mole or skin tag to burn away the tissue, effectively eliminating the growth while sealing blood vessels to minimise bleeding.
Laser Removal
Laser removal uses highly focused light energy to break down the pigmented cells or tissues of the mole or skin tag. This method is particularly effective for small, flat moles and skin tags in sensitive or visible areas, as it reduces the risk of scarring.
Benefits of Electrocautery and Laser Removal:
Surgical removal is recommended for treating larger, raised moles and skin tags, and for obtaining a biopsy specimen for histology (lab testing to check for skin cancer).
Surgical removal of the mole or skin tag involves using a scalpel blade to completely remove the lesion, followed by stitching up the wound with fine sutures. This is performed under local anaesthesia
Benefits of Surgical Removal:
After mole or skin tag removal with laser, electrocautery or surgical technique- a scar is inevitable but can be optimised with meticulous surgical technique and good wound care.
Keep the Area Clean and Moisturised
To promote healing, clean the wound with mild soap and water and apply a prescribed ointment or moisturiser.
Protect from Sun Exposure
The healing skin is sensitive to UV rays, which can darken scars. To protect the area, use a high-SPF sunscreen.
Silicone Gels or Sheets
These products help flatten and lighten scars over time. They are widely available and easy to use.
Medical Interventions
For mature and stable scars, laser treatment can further improve the appearance of scar tissue by promoting scar remodelling and reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Although professional removal reduces the risk of recurrence, it is not entirely eliminated. Your skin tag or mole may recur depending on the following factors:
If a mole or skin tag grows back, consult your doctor for further evaluation.
At Bay Aesthetics Clinic, fees are waived for the treatment of moles or skin tags that recur within 3 months of the first procedure
Electrocautery or laser removal (suitable for small <3mm and flat lesions, will leave a large round scar, unable to send to lab for testing)
Surgical removal with micro stitching by doctor (suitable for lesions >3mm, raised lesions, able to send to the lab for testing if growth is cancerous, will have a small linear scar)
The price depends on the location of the mole/skin tag/skin lesion and the complexity of the procedure.
For insurance claims, medical reports and histology reports (if sent) will be provided free of charge.
Insurance and Medisave coverage depends on the reason for mole or skin tag removal. Cosmetic reasons are not covered, while mole or skin tag removal for functional (causing pain or bleeding) or diagnosis (risk of cancer) reasons usually are covered. Our clinic team will assist with advice and insurance claim processing with relevant medical and histology reports.
Removing moles and skin tags at home or in a beauty salon might seem convenient and cost-effective, but these DIY methods can compromise your health and skin in the following ways:
DIY removal typically involves non-sterile tools or inadequate hygiene practices, which can introduce bacteria and lead to infections.
Amateur techniques often fail to remove the mole or skin tag entirely. They may grow back, sometimes larger or more problematic than before.
Poor techniques, such as cutting too profoundly or unevenly, can lead to unsightly scars that may take months to heal or may become permanent.
One of the most severe risks of DIY mole removal is the potential to overlook signs of skin cancer.
Without proper anaesthesia or medical expertise, DIY methods can be painful and may result in excessive bleeding.
Opting for professional treatments in Singapore ensures safe, high-quality care and long-lasting results.
At Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medispa, we have years of experience in removing moles and skin tags. Whether you're seeking to remove growths for cosmetic reasons or health concerns, our team of doctors will assess your mole or skin tag thoroughly to recommend the most appropriate removal technique based on the growth's size, location, and nature. Our doctors have postgraduate training in surgery and dermatology and treat a high volume of moles and skin tags (and all sorts of skin conditions!), ensuring you are in safe and experienced hands.
Here’s why hundreds of patients have chosen Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medispa for their mole or skin tag removal procedure
1) Transparent pricing and 3-month guarantee
Financial counselling is completed prior to the treatment with no hidden costs, follow-up visit and medical report is included in the fee. If the mole or skin tag recurs within 3 months and requires a repeat treatment, the repeat treatment is provided and fees are waived. This gives patients peace of mind
2) Experienced, internationally trained medical team
Our doctors have over 10 years of experience and postgraduate advanced training in surgery and dermatology. We treat a high volume of skin lesions with good outcomes
3) Comprehensive treatment and aftercare
Removing the mole or skin tag is not the end to achieve the optimal cosmetic outcome, laser treatment and skincare are recommended. As a full-service Medical Aesthetic and Laser Clinic, we have the equipment and ability to deliver the results you want.
Removing moles and skin tags at home or in a beauty salon might seem convenient and cost-effective, but these DIY methods can compromise your health and skin in the following ways:
Most procedures are painless with the use of local anaesthesia. Some methods, like laser removal, may cause mild discomfort akin to a pinprick sensation.
Scarring is inevitable but can be minimised with professional care and proper aftercare. Silicone gels, sunscreen, and medical treatments can help reduce scarring.
Yes, when performed by trained professionals. Professional clinics ensure sterile conditions and safe techniques, reducing risks of complications.
Minimal preparation is required. Your doctor will provide specific instructions during the consultation.
Recurrence is rare but possible, especially if the growth is partially removed. Follow-up visits can address any regrowth.