What is it?

Moles may vary in color, ranging from natural skin tone to pink, brown or black. They commonly appear flat or raised on the skin during puberty and adolescence. Typically, adults have between 10 and 40 moles, with varying growth rates. Some moles diminish or disappear over time.

What to expect

If necessary, our board-certified dermatologists may even recommend mole removal—a procedure that involves shaving or excising the mole. We also accommodate requests for aesthetic mole removal, such as moles on the face, neck, back and arms. Mole removal procedures are relatively efficient, and you should be able to drive home after the appointment. 

There are two ways to remove moles: surgical excision (cutting the mole off with a scalpel) and shave excision (shaving the mole off with a razor). Our board-certified dermatologists will discuss the best option for you. Before we remove the mole, we will prep the area by cleaning the mole site. Then, our dermatologist will numb it with a local anesthetic injectable or a topical cream. This reduces the amount of discomfort you may have.

After the mole removal, you'll receive clear guidance on how to care for the wound at home. The healing process can take about three weeks.

If you'd like to consult with one of our board-certified dermatologists in Lake Forest, Glenview or Chicago, Illinois, please contact us, and we'll schedule an appointment.

Important to note: Please do not conduct home remedies because of the potentially harmful effects they could cause. It’s always best to seek professional care.