What Happens If You Accidentally Scratch Off A Mole? Don’t Panic!

Home » Dermatology » What Happens If You Accidentally Scratch Off A Mole? Don’t Panic!

If you accidentally scratch your mole too hard, or maybe you have caught it on a piece of clothing taking the surface layer of.. Do not panic! This can happen to moles in awkward places. Oftentimes a mole that is damaged will heal like a normal skin wound, requiring no intervention. However, if the mole has now changed dramatically in appearance, booking an assessment with a dermatologist can put your mind at ease.

Dr Sharon Crichlow
March 17, 2025
Reading Time: 5 Mins

With most of us having 10-40 moles on our bodies by adulthood, the chances of us catching one on a piece of clothing or accidentally scratching it too hard, can be quite common.

When this happens to you it can be very alarming, as we are always told to monitor changes to our moles closely. While most minor injuries to moles will heal like a typical skin wound and cause you no medical concern. Many people will experience a sharp rise in anxiety and head to Google for answers, the big one being do I need to see a medical professional?

Next we will walk you through a step by step guide to help put your mind at ease, and take action where it is necessary.

Just Scratched Your Mole? Here is What You Should Do Next

We will presume you have only just your mole, since this is a logical place to start. While it might cause you distress and be alarming, staying calm and taking rational steps is the best thing you can do right now. Follow these simple steps to promote healing and reduce the risk of any infections taking place.

Step 1: Stop the Bleeding

Apply gentle pressure with a clean tissue or gauze.
Hold it for a few minutes until the bleeding stops.

Step 2: Clean the Area

Wash gently with mild soap and warm water.
Apply a small amount of antiseptic cream to prevent infection.

Step 3: Protect and Let It Heal

Cover with a plaster if needed, especially if it’s in a high friction area.
Avoid touching or picking at the scab to prevent irritation.

Once you have taken care of your mole, stopped the bleeding and started the healing process. The next step would be to begin monitoring the mole for changes in appearance.

Now That It’s Healing, Here’s What to Check

While you want to pay attention to your moles appearance, what we do not want you doing is getting yourself into an anxiety spiral. Often when we are over analysing something, we can see things that are just simply not there.

If you are in doubt, or feel yourself getting into a negative mind space, we would always advise you to reach out to a dermatologist!

Here is a simple way for you to keep an eye on your mole.

A,B,C,D,E Mole Check

A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.

B – Border: Uneven, jagged, or blurred edges.

C – Colour: Multiple colours or a mole that darkens.

D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

E – Evolving: Any noticeable changes over time.

When monitoring your mole from home, stage E in the check above is very important. It’s a fact that humans are incredibly self aware, noting even the smallest changes in our appearance. If your mole has healed and it looks very different, perhaps you have photos of it before and you can compare it to after?

If your mole has changed in size, shape or colour then we would advise you to seek the help of a qualified dermatologist. While this might sound scary to you and set off the panic alarms, a mole check is a lot more simple and painless than you might think. A quick check can help put your mind at ease and rule out any signs of something more serious.

Booked Your Mole Check? Here’s What You Can Expect

On the day of your mole check, the chances are you will be feeling a little nervous. This is completely normal, and most patients will feel the same way. The good news is that a mole check is very quick, completely painless, and designed to put your mind at ease.

How Your Mole Will Be Examined

The dermatologist will visually assess your mole, sometimes using a dermatoscope (a handheld magnifier with a light).
They’ll check for any irregularities based on the ABCDE rule. Asymmetry, borders, colour, diameter, and evolving changes.

What Happens If Further Testing Is Needed?

If your mole looks completely normal, you’ll be reassured and sent on your way.
If they need a closer look, they may recommend a biopsy. This is when a small sample is taken and sent for testing.

What If Your Mole Needs to Be Removed?

Mole removal is a simple, same day procedure done under local anesthetic with minimal discomfort or pain.
The area may scab over but heals within a couple of weeks with little to no scarring.

What To Remember During The Initial Panic

When you first scratch your mole it can instantly send you into panic mode. But we would advise you to take a step back, and remember in most cases there is absolutely no need to worry. The important thing to do right now, is to care for your mole and give it the best possible chance of healing without risking any infections.

Once your mole has begun to heal, pay attention to it and monitor it closely for changes. If your mole has healed normally, then there is no further action needed. But if your mole is looking different to how you’re used to seeing it, then we would urge you to book a mole check with a dermatologist.

Remember, professionals exist for a reason. Should you need any advice, or a mole check to help put your mind at ease, you can book your free initial online assessment below.