Can Moles Be Squeezed Out? Skin Lesions and Their Care

Can moles be squeezed out?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if moles can be manually squeezed out.
I have had a mole on the lower right side of my chest for about 4 years.
It is very dark, approximately 2-3 mm in diameter, and has an irregular shape but has not shown any signs of growing.
Recently, I discovered a small black spot that looks like a mole under my left breast, and when I squeezed it, it surprisingly came out, resembling a blackhead.
Can moles be squeezed out? After squeezing, there was still a faint light brown spot left, similar to a faint mole, about 1 mm in diameter.
Additionally, I have noticed faintly raised moles on the calves of both my legs; the one on my right leg has been there for about a year and is approximately 2 mm in diameter, while the one on my left leg just appeared recently and is about 3 mm in diameter, with a lighter color than the one on the right.
Doctor, are these symptoms normal or abnormal? Do you have any recommendations? How should I monitor these moles for changes to determine if they are benign or malignant? Thank you.

Xia Tian, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/07

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

A mole cannot be squeezed out, and without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to confirm.
It is recommended to have it examined by a dermatologist for proper evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/01/07

More Info

When it comes to skin lesions such as moles, it is crucial to understand their nature and the appropriate methods for care and treatment. Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can vary in color, size, and shape. They are typically benign, but changes in their appearance can sometimes indicate a need for further evaluation.

To address your question about whether moles can be "squeezed out," it is important to clarify that moles are not like pimples or blackheads, which can be extruded from the skin. Moles are composed of clusters of melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. Attempting to squeeze a mole can lead to irritation, bleeding, or infection, and it does not remove the mole itself. Instead, it may cause scarring or other complications.

In your case, you mentioned that you were able to squeeze out a small black lesion that resembled a mole. This could indicate that it was not a true mole but rather a different type of skin lesion, such as a sebaceous cyst or a clogged pore. However, the fact that you described it as having a "pore-like" appearance suggests it may not have been a mole at all. The presence of a darker spot that you were able to extrude could be a sign of a benign skin condition, but it is essential to monitor any changes.

Regarding the moles you have on your body, particularly the one on your chest that has been present for four years, it is essential to keep an eye on them for any changes in size, shape, color, or texture. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles:
- Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the mole, the two halves do not match.

- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.

- Color: The color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue.

- Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), although some melanomas can be smaller.

- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

If you notice any of these characteristics, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for a professional evaluation. They may recommend a biopsy or other diagnostic tests to determine whether the mole is benign or malignant.

In terms of self-examination, it is beneficial to regularly check your skin for new growths or changes in existing moles. Documenting any changes with photographs can help you track their evolution over time. If you have concerns about the appearance of your moles or any new skin lesions, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to attempt to remove or squeeze out skin lesions, it is not advisable to do so with moles. Instead, focus on monitoring their characteristics and consult a healthcare professional for any concerns. Regular skin checks and awareness of changes are key to maintaining skin health and addressing potential issues early on.

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