Hairy Moles: Are They Dangerous & How To Get Rid Of Them?

Some moles have hair follicles inside them, just like normal skin. These follicles can grow hair, which is why you sometimes see hair coming from a mole.

Seeing hair in a mole might look unusual, but in most cases, it’s actually a good sign. It usually means the mole has healthy, well-nourished skin cells and a strong blood supply. While most hairy moles are safe, it’s always important to keep an eye on them for any changes.

This guide explains why moles grow hair, when to be cautious, and the safest ways to manage or remove hairy moles if needed. Whether it’s for cosmetic reasons or health concerns, knowing what to do can give you peace of mind and help you take care of your skin safely.

What Are Hairy Moles?

Hairy moles are small spots on the skin that sometimes grow hair. They are usually harmless and common. Hair in a mole does not mean it is dangerous. In fact, hair often shows that the mole has healthy skin cells and a good blood supply. 

Moles often appear on   the face, neck, or other visible areas. Many wonder if these moles are dangerous or if the hair should be removed. In most cases, hairy moles are safe, but it is important to watch them for any changes.

Why Do Moles Grow Hair?

Hair growth in moles happens because some moles contain active hair follicles. While it may look unusual, it is usually harmless. Here are the main causes explained:

Hair Follicle Presence

Some moles form on areas of the skin where hair follicles already exist. These follicles remain active, so hair can continue to grow normally through the mole. This is why the hair in a mole might appear darker or thicker than the surrounding hair.

Healthy Skin Tissue

The skin inside a non-cancerous mole is often healthy and well-nourished, which supports the growth of hair. Seeing hair in a mole usually means the skin cells in that area are functioning properly and receiving a good blood supply.

Hormonal Influence

Hormones, especially androgens like testosterone, can stimulate hair follicles. This is why the hair in a mole may become more noticeable during puberty, pregnancy, or other times of hormonal changes.

Genetics

Family history can play a role in hairy moles. If relatives have moles with hair, you might be more likely to develop them too. Genetics can influence both the number of moles and whether they grow hair.

If you wonder, ‘Why am I getting skin tags all of a sudden?’ Explore the causes and safe treatment options.

Are Hairy Moles Cancerous?

Is it bad if hair is growing out of a mole? Hairy moles are not cancerous; most hairy moles are completely harmless. The presence of hair in a mole is usually a sign that the skin cells there are healthy and well-nourished.

Hair Is A Good Sign

Hair growing from a mole often means the mole has a good blood supply and normal, functioning cells. Cancerous moles, like melanoma, can sometimes stop hair from growing.

When To Be Cautious

When to get moles checked? Even though most hairy moles are safe, it’s important to watch for changes. See a doctor if you notice:

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• The mole changing in size, shape, or colour
• Irregular or blurred borders
• Multiple shades of brown, black, or pink
• Itching, bleeding, or pain

Regular self-checks and skin specialist visits can help you make sure that your moles remain healthy and give you peace of mind.

What Is a Mole That Looks Hairy? 

A mole that looks hairy is simply a mole with hair growing from it. This happens when the mole forms over a hair follicle, which is the tiny structure in your skin that produces hair.

Appearance of Hairy Mole

Hairy moles can be flat or slightly raised. Their colour can range from light brown to dark brown or even black. The hair itself is often thicker or darker than the hair around it because the mole has a richer blood supply and more active follicles.

Why Hair Grows

Hair grows from these moles because the follicles inside them are healthy and active. This is completely normal and not a sign of disease. Hair growth can also become more noticeable during puberty or times of hormonal change.

Hairy moles are common, and having hair in a mole does not mean it is dangerous.

How To Get Rid Of Hairy Moles?

If a hair mole bothers you or the mole needs removal for safety or cosmetic reasons, there are safe ways to do it. Some methods remove the mole completely, while others focus on hair only.

Surgical Excision

Surgical excision is the most reliable and long-lasting method. In this procedure, a doctor carefully cuts out the entire mole along with the surrounding skin margin and the hair follicles beneath it. Removing the mole fully ensures that hair won’t grow back and allows the tissue to be tested if there’s any concern about abnormal cells. This method is ideal for larger moles, moles with irregular features, or any mole that your doctor wants to examine for safety.

Shave Excision

Shave excision is a quicker, less invasive option. The doctor shaves the mole off flush with the surrounding skin using a small blade. It often does not require stitches and has a shorter recovery time. This method works well for smaller, raised moles and can improve the appearance of the skin. However, because some hair follicles may remain beneath the surface, there is a possibility that hair could grow back.

Laser Removal

Laser removal can target the pigmentation and reduce the size of the mole without cutting into the skin. It is often chosen for cosmetic reasons, especially for raised or lightly coloured moles. However, lasers generally do not reach the deeper hair follicles so that hair may grow back over time. Laser removal is less suitable for moles with active hair growth or if there is any concern about the mole’s health.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves freezing the mole with liquid nitrogen, which destroys the mole tissue. This method can be effective for some moles but may not remove all hair follicles, allowing hair to regrow. It is a quick procedure with minimal pain, though multiple sessions may be needed for complete removal.

Electrosurgery

Electrosurgery uses a controlled electric current to burn away the mole tissue. It is often combined with curettage, where the mole is gently scraped off after being treated. This method is precise and can reduce scarring, but it may not eliminate all hair follicles, meaning hair could return.

Important: Avoid plucking, waxing, or laser hair removal directly on a mole. These can cause irritation or burns, burns, or make it hard to check the mole for changes.

If you want a safe, lasting solution, the best approach is to see a healthcare professional who can safely remove the mole and its hair.

Can I Pluck Hairs Out of Moles?

It may be tempting just to pluck a hair growing from a mole, especially if it looks unsightly. However, plucking is not recommended.

Why is it Risky?

Pulling hair from a mole can irritate the skin, cause tiny cuts, or even lead to infection. The skin around a mole is delicate, and repeated plucking may make the mole inflamed or red.

Hair May Grow Back

Even if you pluck the hair, the follicle is still alive beneath the skin. This means the hair can grow back, sometimes even thicker or darker.

Monitoring Becomes Harder 

Changing the mole by plucking or injuring it can make it difficult for a doctor to check for any warning signs, such as changes in size, shape, or colour.

How To Monitor Hairy Moles By Yourself?

Even though most hairy moles are harmless, it’s important to keep an eye on them regularly. Monitoring helps catch any unusual changes early, which can be important for your skin health.

• Check the shape: Make sure both halves of the mole look similar. A mole that becomes asymmetrical could signal a problem.
• Look at the edges: The borders should be smooth and even. Ragged, blurry, or irregular edges need attention.
• Notice the colour: A healthy mole usually has one or two shades of brown. Multiple colours like black, red, or white could be a warning sign.
• Measure the size: Most harmless moles are smaller than 6 mm6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser). A mole that grows quickly or becomes larger should be checked.
• Watch for changes: Any changes in size, shape, colour, or if the mole starts itching, bleeding, or feeling sore, should prompt a visit to a dermatologist.

Tip: Take photos of your moles every few months. Comparing them over time can help you notice even small changes. Always consult a doctor if something seems different or unusual.

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Safe Hair Management for Hairy Moles

If you have hair growing from a mole, it’s natural to want to manage it for cosmetic reasons. The key is to do it safely without damaging the mole or skin.

Trimming or Shaving

With the help of small scissors or a gentle trimmer, carefully cut the hair close to the skin. This is safe and doesn’t harm the mole. Always be gentle to avoid nicks or irritation.

Professional Electrolysis

This method uses a small electric current to target the hair follicle. It’s done by a trained professional and can reduce hair growth long-term, without affecting the mole itself.

Avoid Plucking or Waxing

Pulling hair from a mole can cause irritation, inflammation, or even infection. It can also leave the mole looking damaged or scarred.

Skip Laser Hair Removal

Laser treatments target pigment in the hair follicle. Since moles are also pigmented, lasers can burn or alter the mole, making it harder to monitor for changes.

Tip: If the mole is causing concern, either because of hair growth or cosmetic reasons, it’s safest to speak with a dermatologist. They can guide you on proper hair management or mole removal options.

When To See A Doctor?

• See a healthcare practitioner if a mole changes shape or size.
• Check for uneven or jagged edges.
• Watch for multiple colours in one mole.
• Moles larger than a pencil eraser need attention.
• Itching, bleeding, or pain around a mole is a warning.

Remember: Checking the moles regularly helps catch problems early.

Final Remarks

Hairy moles are common and usually safe. Hair growth in a mole is often a sign of healthy skin, not danger. However, regular monitoring is key. Watch for changes in size, shape, colour, or texture, and see a dermatologist if anything looks unusual. Avoid plucking, waxing, or lasers directly on a mole, as these can irritate or damage it.

If the mole or its hair bothers you, the safest approach is to consult an expert at Yorkshire Skin Center in Leeds for a safe mole removal treatment procedure.

They can recommend the best treatment, whether it’s trimming, professional electrolysis, or complete mole removal.

FAQs

1. Should I remove a hairy mole?

Most hairy moles don’t need to be removed. If the hair or mole bothers you, a dermatologist can safely remove it for cosmetic reasons or to check the mole’s health.

2. Why is my mole so hairy?

Hairy moles have active hair follicles inside them. Hormones, genetics, and good blood supply can all make the hair more noticeable.

3. Is it bad to pluck hairs from a mole?

Plucking can irritate the mole, cause redness, or make it harder to monitor for changes. It’s safer to trim or ask a professional for guidance.

4. Which moles should not be removed?

Normal, harmless moles usually don’t need removal, as this can leave a scar. Only moles that your dermatologist considers suspicious require a biopsy or removal.