No, you should not shave a raised mole. Shaving a raised mole can cause injury, scarring, and potential infection. However, if your mole is flat and flush against your skin, you can shave over it or wax it.
Understanding Mole Shaving
The safety of shaving a mole depends entirely on its characteristics:
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Flat Moles: For moles that lie flat against the skin's surface, shaving is generally considered acceptable. This involves carefully shaving over the mole, not directly on it. The goal is to remove hair from the surrounding area without disturbing the mole itself. Source: Healthline, 2018
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Raised Moles: Shaving or otherwise manipulating a raised mole is strongly discouraged. The risk of injury, bleeding, infection, and scarring is significantly higher. These moles should be handled with caution, and professional evaluation by a dermatologist is recommended. Source: Walk-in Dermatology, 2020
Professional Mole Removal
If you're concerned about a mole, or if it's raised, you should consult a dermatologist or another qualified healthcare professional. They can assess your mole, determining if removal is necessary and recommending the safest and most appropriate method. Methods for mole removal include:
- Shave Excision: This is suitable for raised moles and involves shaving off the mole with a scalpel. Source: Cosmedics Skin Clinics
- Surgical Excision: This is a more extensive procedure used for larger or deeper moles. Source: Cleveland Clinic
Important Note: Attempting to remove a mole at home using unsterile methods can lead to serious complications. It's crucial to seek professional medical advice for any mole concerns. Source: Skin Cancer Foundation
