Moles are a skin growth that can develop anywhere on the body. Many people would like to remove a mole, but this can be costly. Instead, some people may turn to home remedies. But are they effective and safe?
Most people have between 10 and 40 moles on their body. They are usually harmless but can sometimes become cancerous.
If a person has a cancerous mole, then medical insurance will typically cover the cost of removal. However, insurance may not include the removal of benign moles, which is why some people may consider home remedies. Others may try home remedies because they do not want to see a doctor about a normal mole.
Although some people believe that home remedies can work, no formal studies have been carried out on their safety, effectiveness, or potential side effects. It is essential that anyone who is considering removing a mole using home remedies talks to a dermatologist (skin doctor) beforehand.
Some methods of removing a mole at home have not been proven effective or may be unsafe.
The following methods are among the most popular methods of removing moles, but despite claims of their effectiveness, they are unproven.
Anyone attempting these remedies should follow instructions carefully and be aware of possible damage, irritation, and scarring of the surrounding skin.
- Garlic
Some people believe that applying garlic to a mole for a period of time will cause it to diminish or disappear entirely. This is because garlic contains enzymes which may dissolve the cell clusters that cause the mole. Garlic can cause skin burns.
- Castor oil baking soda mix
Mixing castor oil and baking soda together creates an ointment that may remove moles if applied for several weeks. The theory behind this is that the baking soda dries out the mole and the castor oil helps protect the skin.
- Oregano oil
Oregano essential oil can be harsh on the skin and must be diluted with a carrier oil, such as castor oil. When applied a few times a day for several weeks, the combination of oils may help remove a mole.
- Iodine
Using a specific concentration of iodine for several weeks may cause a mole to flake off. Iodine can burn, so apply petroleum jelly around the surrounding area to protect the skin. Iodine is toxic, so take great care when using it. Never apply to skin that is broken.
- Lemon juice
Using lemon juice several times a day may bleach the mole, making it less obvious.
- Tea tree oil
Tea tree essential oil is a well-researched essential oil best known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties Trusted Source. Some people claim that applying tea tree oil several times a day for a period will cause the mole to disappear. Take care when using tea tree oil as it is potent and toxic if swallowed.
- Potatoes
Potatoes are thought to have a natural bleaching effect. Though the potato may not fully remove the mole, it may help to fade it away over time.
- Flaxseed oil
Some studiesTrusted Source indicate flaxseed oil contains properties that help heal cuts and other lacerations. People also use it to help get rid of dark spots and blemishes, including moles.
- Frankincense oil
Frankincense oil is thought to dry the skin, causing moles to scab and fall off.
Frankincense essential oil reportedly has properties that help absorb oils and dry the skin. Proponents believe that when applied daily, the frankincense oil reacts with the mole, causing it to dry out, scab, and fall off.
Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil (like sweet almond oil or coconut oil) before applying to the skin.
- Banana peels
Banana peels contain specific enzymes and acids that some people think can help remove a mole. One potential benefit of using banana peel on the skin is that it will act as a moisturizer.
- Honey
Some studies Trusted Source indicate that honey has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Some believe that applying honey to moles will cause them to fade away within a few days.
- Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide reportedly has properties that will help remove moles when applied to the skin. It should be applied three to four times a day.
Check with a pharmacist to find the type of hydrogen peroxide deemed suitable for this purpose.
- Aloe vera
Aloe vera contains many recognized Trusted Source skin-promoting properties. Some people believe that when used over time, aloe vera will help remove moles. Apply the plant or a manufactured product to the mole.
It is important to do an allergy test first, as it is possible to be allergic to aloe vera.
- Coconut oil
Coconut oil may help with other skin issues, but there are no studies that indicate it can help remove moles. However, some people believe it will reduce the size of the mole when applied daily.
Source: www.medicalnewstoday.com
