How to get rid of this pimple/mole? (Photos)

Question

Hi, This started off as a pimple I scratched. But it’s grown into a pink mole. It flakes and I have a picking problem and always pull off the flakes when I feel them. I want to get it removed, because it’s getting bigger and looks terrible. I’ve probably had it for 3-4 months now and it’s on the back of my neck. The second picture is from today.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Based on your description and the photos provided, this lesion may represent a benign growth such as a dermatofibroma, hypertrophic scar, or possibly a mole that developed or was irritated following trauma to the skin (like scratching or picking). The fact that it has persisted for 3–4 months, continues to grow, and flakes suggests chronic irritation, which can lead to thickening or pigmentation changes in the skin.

Repeated picking can worsen the appearance, delay healing, and lead to scarring or even infection. While some lesions like this can resolve on their own over time, persistent or evolving lesions should be properly evaluated to rule out anything atypical, including pre-cancerous changes.

Treatment options to consider may include:

Topical corticosteroids (for inflammation or irritation)

Cryotherapy (freezing the lesion)

Surgical excision or shave removal (for definitive treatment and diagnosis)

Biopsy (if there is uncertainty about the lesion’s nature)

It is important to avoid picking at it, as this can worsen scarring and interfere with healing.

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