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| - Last Updated on March 16, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that one can safely and effectively remove moles and warts using over-the-counter products such as cream. We fact-checked and found this claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A Twitter post reads, “Kasoy Cream Remove Moles, Warts, Keloid, Oil Clog Skin Tag & More 100% Effective https://ebay.us/iqdjhu via @eBay.”
Fact Check
What are moles and warts?
Both moles and warts are types of skin growth having different characteristics and causes. A mole, also known as a nevus, is a skin growth that looks black or brown and develops when pigment-producing cells called melanocytes grow in groups. Some moles are present at birth, while others develop over the course of your lifetime.
A wart is a dermatological condition that causes small and fleshy growth of non-cancerous cells on the skin. They vary in appearance and may develop singly or in clusters. They are caused by an infection caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
How to treat moles and warts?
A dermatologist can either cut the mole and stitch the skin or use a surgical blade to remove the mole. However, research suggests a doctor may further examine the mole as overgrowth of cells is a sign of skin cancer.
A wart often goes away on its own. However, a dermatologist may want to cut it or use Cantharidin to provide instant relief. The doctor may also use Cryotherapy or Electrosurgery for a soft wart. Also, if the wart is hard the doctor can recommend Immunotherapy, Laser treatment, Chemical peels and Bleomycin.
Is it safe to remove warts and moles at home?
Not exactly. It is not safe to remove warts and moles at home with over-the-counter creams. In some cases, these can do more harm than good. In cases where the skin is already irritated, infected, or erythematous, it will hamper the skin.
Non-prescription wart products function by slowly corroding the skin surface on which they are applied. As a result, the wart is eventually revealed and gradually eradicated. However, there is a slight chance that the skin may appear abnormal following the removal of the wart and can result in permanent scarring.
Additionally, warts located in the genital area should never be self-treated. They could be an indication of a sexually transmitted disease and must be evaluated by a physician.
In fact, due to the potentially harmful side effects and serious risks associated with these products, the FDA is cautioning consumers against using them. Such risks include skin injuries, infections necessitating antibiotics, scarring, and delayed diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. The FDA has, in fact, received reports of permanent skin injuries and infections resulting from the use of products marketed as a mole or skin tag removers.
Dr Smriti Naswa, Clinical, Pediatric & Cosmetic Dermatologist, says, “A mole is a deep-seated nest of Melanin (birthmark) with its seat at the lower dermis. A mole should only be removed by a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon with a minimal scar. However, a wart is a viral infection in the skin that spreads by touching. A ‘do it yourself’ process can spread it further. A wart should be removed with the help of a Radio-Frequency or CO2 laser by a Dermatologist.”
Remember, it is very common to misdiagnose these skin growths, and self-treating these can cause a delay in treatment and a variety of other problems. Removing warts and moles requires expertise and knowledge of different removal techniques, such as freezing, excision, or laser treatment. Using an OTC cream may not address the underlying issue or prevent future growth. Therefore, always consult a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific case. They can also help you understand the potential risks and benefits of any proposed treatment.
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