How to Check Moles for Skin Cancer – What to Look For and When to Act

Most moles are harmless – but some aren’t

The tricky part? Knowing which is which. Most people have between 10 and 40 moles on their body, and the vast majority are completely benign. But changes in your skin can be easy to miss – especially in areas you don’t often check.

That’s why at No. 23 Skin, we encourage regular mole checks, both at home and with a qualified specialist. If you’re looking for information on a mole check dermatologist in London, this guide will help you understand what to look out for, how to examine your skin, and when to seek expert advice.

Because when it comes to skin cancer, early detection can make all the difference.

Self-checks matter. Here’s how to do them properly.

Your skin changes slowly. And when you see it every day, those changes can be easy to miss. That’s why dermatologists recommend a monthly self-check – especially if you’re over 40, fair-skinned, have a family history of melanoma, or have ever used sunbeds.

Signs of skin cancer in moles:

• A new mole or growth that’s pearly, transparent, dark brown or multicoloured

• An existing mole that changes in size, shape, or colour

• A mole or spot that starts itching, bleeding, or crusting

• A sore that doesn’t heal within three weeks

The NHS has a useful page on this including images of melanomas. 

Use the ‘ABCDE’ Rule for Moles

This quick guide can help you spot warning signs early:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other

• B – Border: Irregular, blurred, or jagged edges

• C – Colour: Uneven tones of brown, black, red, or pink

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

• E – Expert: If you’re unsure, get it checked. It’s always worth it.

How to check your skin (properly)

You’ll need good lighting, a full-length mirror, and a hand-held mirror for hard-to-see areas. Take your time – once a month is enough, but being thorough is key.

Where to check:

• Face and scalp – including lips, ears, and behind the ears

• Hands – palms, backs, fingers, nails and wrists

• Arms – forearms and upper arms, all the way around

• Torso – chest, neck, under breasts, and abdomen

• Back and bum – using a mirror to scan hard-to-reach spots

• Legs and feet – thighs to toes, including soles and nails

It’s normal to feel unsure the first time. If something seems new or different – even if you’re not quite sure why – that’s a good reason to book in with a specialist or head to your GP.

What happens during a mole check?

At No. 23 Skin, our dermatology team in Kensington offers expert mole checks designed to give you clarity and reassurance. Here’s what you can expect:

• A short consultation to discuss your skin, history, and any concerns

• A discreet full-body mole check using a dermatoscope (a magnifying tool for detailed mole analysis)

• Immediate feedback and advice from an experienced dermatologist

• The option to remove a mole the same day, if clinically appropriate

• Clear next steps, whether medical, cosmetic or simply peace of mind

We also offer cosmetic mole removal if a harmless mole is bothering you for aesthetic reasons. You’ll never be pushed into anything – our job is to give you the facts, not the hard sell.

When to see a dermatologist for a mole

If you’ve noticed changes in a mole, or aren’t confident doing checks yourself, don’t wait. Our consultant dermatologists have over 20 years of experience diagnosing skin cancer, and we’re based right here in Kensington, London. We do a full body check – so that one you can’t see on your back – we’ll check that too. It is worth noting that your NHS GP can check a single mole too, if you’re worried about it.

Even if the mole turns out to be nothing, the peace of mind is worth it. And if it does need action, you’ll be in the right hands from the start.

Want to know more?

You can read more about our dermatology services in London, or go straight to booking your mole check.

Or, ask us your questions – we’re always here to help with your skin questions – no matter how big or small. Contact us here.

Helen
CoFounder
No. 23 Skin

hc@23skin.co.uk

Please note – this post is for information only, if you have any medical concerns, please seek advice from your GP, or book an appointment with our dermatologists for individual specialist advice and treatment.

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