If you're concerned about a mole or an area of skin, your first port of call needs to be your GP. They will assess your concern, and may then refer you to a dermatologist for a second opinion; this can take approximately two weeks for an urgent referral.

You don't have to go to your NHS GP for a mole check. If you'd like to routinely get your moles checked or you've noticed a change in your skin, you can see a dermatologist privately. The benefit of seeing a dermatologist, or consultant dermatologist (i.e. senior doctor), is they are specialists in all aspects of skin and skin disease, with a huge amount of experience diagnosing and treating skin concerns, including skin cancer.

It's important to remember that skin cancer presents in other forms, not just abnormal moles. It can also be lumps and scaly patches. So if you are concerned about any aspect of your skin health, seek professional advice.

Prevention

The Skin to Love Clinic's consultant dermatologist, Dr Crichlow, gives advice on what to look out for and what to do (and not to do!) in order to keep your skin as healthy as possible:

“When it comes to moles, bear in mind the ABCDE rule to help you look for signs of melanoma [explained below]. It's always a good habit to have a yearly mole check with your dermatologist where they'll give you an all-over assessment; this is especially important if you, or any of your close family, have a previous history of skin cancer. It's hugely important to wear a daily sun cream with a 30 to 50 SPF and when on holiday, always wear a sun hat and try to avoid being in the sun between 11am and 3pm”.

Finally, Su, the nurse independent prescriber at The Skin to Love Clinic in St Albans, has this helpful tip: “Take photos of your moles every few months, especially on your back where you don’t see them regularly, to help you track any changes”.

ABCDE rule to check for possible melanomas

A A-symmetry: If you were to draw a line through the mole, the two halves do not match.

B Borders: Irregular, uneven.

C Colour: A variety of colours within a mole can be a warning sign; different shades of brown, tan or black could appear. A melanoma may also become blue, red or blue.

D Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger than 6mm in diameter.

E Evolution: Be on the lookout for moles changing. This can be any type of change - size, colour, shape, becoming raised or flatter, or any new trait or symptom such as crusting, bleeding or itching.

If you would like to arrange a private appointment to see Dr Crichlow, please call The Skin to Love Clinic on 01727 837429.