Mole and age-spot removal

Burning off raised skin lesions with a laser — quick and inexpensive, but there is a scabbing period.

Treatment time: 5–30 min
Downtime: 3–10 days
Sessions: 1–2 sessions

How it works

A CO2 or similar laser vaporises the lesion tissue. Depending on depth it may take one visit or be split across two. The treated spot is left slightly hollow and scabs over; once the scab falls off, a red mark remains for weeks to months before fading.

Used for

Tidying up moles on the face or body
Age spots and the small white milia around the eyes
Lesions in places that keep catching or being irritated

Cautions

A mole that has recently changed shape, colour or size needs a diagnosis first — burning it away leaves nothing to biopsy
Picking the scab off leaves a mark
Skipping sun protection can leave the treated spot darker than before

Aftercare

Keep ointment and a dressing on until the scab falls off, usually seven to ten days
Protect from sun rigorously for at least three months afterwards
The redness fades with time, so do not rush a second treatment

General information only; it does not replace medical diagnosis or advice.