Can You Pull a Hair from a Mole?

Finding a hair growing from a mole can be surprising, but it’s more common than many people realise. These hairs are typically thicker and darker because moles can contain active hair follicles. While the urge to pluck them is understandable, whether or not it’s safe to do so depends on the mole itself and how your skin reacts.

Why Moles Grow Hair

Moles form when clusters of pigment-producing cells grow together, and some of them develop near hair follicles. In fact, hair growth in a mole can be a sign that the skin structure is functioning normally. These hairs tend to grow slower but can appear more noticeable due to the mole’s darker pigment and raised surface.

Is It Safe to Pull a Hair from a Mole?

Generally, pulling a hair from a mole isn’t recommended. While it might not cause immediate harm, repeated plucking can irritate the skin and cause inflammation or infection, especially if the area is not properly sanitised. In rare cases, trauma to the mole — including plucking — can lead to changes in the mole’s appearance, making it harder to monitor over time.

Can It Increase Cancer Risk?

There’s no evidence that pulling a hair from a mole causes skin cancer. However, repeated trauma to a mole might lead to irritation, which can mask warning signs or complicate medical evaluations. If a mole is already suspicious or changing, disturbing it in any way — including pulling hairs — is best avoided until it’s assessed by a professional.

What to Do Instead

If the hair bothers you for cosmetic reasons, trimming it with clean, sharp scissors is a safer alternative to plucking. This avoids disturbing the root or damaging the mole. If you’re concerned about the mole's appearance or prefer more permanent hair removal, speak to a dermatologist who can safely assess and remove the hair if appropriate.

When to Get a Mole Checked

If a mole becomes painful, itchy, starts to bleed, or changes in shape, size, or colour — whether you’ve pulled a hair from it or not — it should be examined by a GP or dermatologist. These signs don’t necessarily mean cancer, but they do warrant a closer look to rule out anything serious.

Final Word

While pulling a hair from a mole isn’t likely to cause cancer, it’s not the safest option. It can lead to irritation or infection, and it's better to trim the hair or have it removed professionally if needed. As with all moles, monitoring for changes and seeking medical advice when in doubt is the best approach.