How to Minimize Redness and Scarring After Mole Removal

A mole removal surgery is an invasive treatment that removes unwanted moles in the variety. The procedure can be done through an incision or shave removal method. Incision method involves applying an anesthetic to numb the target area. An incision is made to remove the mole. The incision is small enough that it does not require stitches.

The shave method involves using a scalpel to shave the mole slightly below the skin. Then, the target area is either cauterized or burned to stop the bleeding. Both procedures could lead to redness and scarring. To reduce the risk of scarring after mole removal, consider these after-treatment tips:

Clean the Wound Properly

Your dermatologist will provide detailed after-treatment instructions to aid in proper healing. You have to follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid unwanted scars on the treated area. The after-treatment care could include taking different antibiotics, dressing the wound, keeping the wound germ free, and after-surgery checkups.

You can either use prescription wound meds to clean the wound or dab a little hydrogen peroxide to kill germs. Keeping the wound clean reduces the risk of infection and minimizes swelling.

Don’t Forget to Moisturize!

You want the treated area to stay hydrated to prevent scar formation. To minimize redness, apply nut butter-based moisturizers or beauty oil. The nutrients from these moisturizers aid in faster healing. That said, do not moisturize the surgery site as soon as the procedure is done. Apply the moisturizer after a scab has formed over the wound.

Scar Treatment Cream

Take your after-surgery care routine up a notch by applying scar treatment cream regularly. You can get this product from your dermatologist or through your local pharmacy. The cream will reduce the risk of scars, heal the treated area, and prevent infection. Look for a treatment cream formulated with natural ingredients. Apply the cream two to three times per day for 12 weeks or as recommended by your dermatologist.

Regular Massage

A massage speeds up healing by boosting blood circulation. When the skin is getting enough oxygen from the blood, it reduces the risk of scarring. You want to use gentle strokes and minimal pressure to avoid bleeding. Limit the massage to at least 2 minutes long. Use a lotion to lubricate the surgery site.

Balanced Diet

Your diet affects your overall health. Proper diet also reduces the risk of scar formation! To maintain healthy skin, boost your consumption of oily fish, nuts, and grains. These foods contain omega-3 fatty acid that keeps the skin healthy. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water every day is one way to speed up healing too! Finally, fill your plate with green, leafy vegetables, snack on citrus fruits, and consume unrefined foods.

Avoid Strenuous Activities

Intense physical activities affect healing after surgery. Unless the skin has healed completely, do not engage in rigorous physical activities. Intense physical activities put a lot of pressure on the body. This could lead to tearing of the stitches, opening of the wound, or excessive sweating that could lead to infections. When the affected area is traumatized repeatedly, scar tissues will start to form.