Modern technology allows for relatively easy mole and skin spot removal. Because the procedure may result in an open scar, time spent in the summer sun only hampers a scar’s appearance; wintertime is the best time to proceed. Schedule a consultation now in order to have plenty of healing time before summer arrives.

Moles

There are two causes of moles: genetics and sun exposure. If a mole changes in shape, size or color, see a dermatologist immediately. It is vital to have all moles regularly checked by a doctor; if one is precancerous or cancerous, early action is the best protection.

There are several ways to remove a mole. The conventional method involves excision — removing the skin lesion by either cutting it out or cauterizing it (using a tool to burn the mole). Depending on the depth of the mole, these methods may require stitches.

Laser removal is another option. Most effective on smaller, shallow moles, laser therapy may result in less scarring. Moeller Dermatology offers several laser therapies and determines which method is most appropriate on a case-by-case basis.

“Now is the ideal time to take care of any skin issues,” said Christopher A. Moeller, M.D. “Scarring is less visible when not subjected to the sun’s rays. Regardless of the method of removal, the mole will be tested to determine if it is precancerous or benign. The health of our clients is of paramount importance.”

Skin Spot Removal

Also called age spots, liver spots or solar lentigines, skin spots are gray, brown or black flat spots on the skin. Their size varies and they usually appear on the face, shoulders, arms and hands — places most exposed to the sun — around age 40, although they can appear at any age. Skin spots are typically harmless but may be removed for aesthetic reasons.

Skin bleaching is one way to diminish the appearance of skin spots. Over-the-counter formulations exist, at a much lower potency than prescription creams and, thus, take much longer to take effect. A dermatologist can prescribe a cream or ointment with a higher concentration of active ingredients, which should lighten skin spots more quickly.

If more immediate results are desired, laser treatments may be what the doctor ordered. The outcome is evident much faster and, depending on the treatment, downtime is minimal. A dermatologist will help determine which laser treatment is right for each client.

Fraxel® Laser — This treatment uses pinpoint laser beams to penetrate beneath the skin’s surface to eliminate old, damaged skin cells. Targeting 5–35 percent of the skin’s surface, the laser leaves the remaining areas available to quickly heal the treated areas. The Fraxel treatment is approved for all skin types and is effective in the treatment of brown spots and acne scarring, as well as fine lines and wrinkles.

“The Fraxel laser option has a remarkable overnight healing time,” said Dr. Moeller. “That limited downtime is a big benefit for a lot of our clients.”

Sciton BBL™ — The Sciton Profile Broadband Light (BBL) treats sun-damaged skin, age spots, facial veins and redness. BBL technology employs the power of pulsed light to deliver excellent results in photo rejuvenation therapy. An internal cooling mechanism in the hand piece makes treatments more comfortable than traditional pulsed light systems, and any area of the body can be treated.

Palomar Q-YAG 5^® — This laser is used to treat age spots by emitting short, powerful pulses of light designed to remove unwanted pigment from the skin.

While several options for removing unwanted moles and skin spots exist, prevention is the ultimate goal. Make sure to minimize time spent in the sun — no matter the season — and wear protection when sun exposure is unavoidable. Cover skin with clothing and, when appropriate, wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. And don’t forget to regularly check the entire body for changes in the skin’s appearance or any new moles. Early detection is key to optimum health.

“Now is the ideal time to take care of any skin issues”