Skin cancer and mole checks: When, why and what to expect 

At No. 23 Skin, we celebrate skin features like freckles and fine lines. But it’s also important to carefully look after the skin you’re in, not to achieve perfection, but to ensure you’re in the best health possible. Mole checks and Skin Cancer Checks West London aren’t just appointments – they’re an essential part of your skin’s health routine.

Most moles are harmless. Many appear in childhood or early adulthood and stay the same for years. Others develop later in life. But when a mole starts changing, or when you’re unsure about what’s normal, it’s natural to feel worried.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, and one of the most treatable, if caught early. So don’t put it off. Regular mole checks with a dermatologist are one of the most effective ways to protect yourself. 

Here’s everything you need to know about when to book an appointment, what happens during a check, and why seeing a specialist makes all the difference.

How Is A Dermatologist Mole Check Different From A GP Appointment?

Your GP might be brilliant at what they do, but dermatology is a specialism that requires years of intensive training. Here’s what sets a dermatologist mole check apart:

Specialist Equipment: Dermatologists use dermoscopy, a tool that magnifies the skin and reveals structures beneath the surface that aren’t visible to the naked eye. This allows us to spot subtle changes that might otherwise be missed.

Years of Specialist Training: Our consultant dermatologists are on the GMC specialist register, meaning they’ve completed extensive training specifically in skin conditions. They’ve seen thousands of moles and know exactly what to look for.

Time and Personalised Care: A dermatologist appointment allows time for a comprehensive check of your entire body. We examine not just the mole that’s concerning you, but also check areas you might not have thought to look, like your scalp, between your toes, or on your back.

Clear Next Steps: If we find anything that needs further investigation, we can arrange for a biopsy or removal on the same day or at a follow-up appointment. You won’t be left waiting or referred elsewhere – everything happens under one roof, by our highly experienced dermatologists. 

When Should I Have A Mole Check?

The short answer? If something’s changed or you’re worried, book an appointment. Here’s a helpful guideline to follow. 

You should see a dermatologist if:

• A mole has changed in size, shape, or colour
• You have a new mole that looks different from your other ones
• A mole bleeds, itches, or becomes crusty
• You have a family history of skin cancer
• You’ve had significant sun exposure or used sunbeds regularly
• You have fair skin, freckles, or burn easily
• You have a large number of moles (50+)
• You just want reassurance and peace of mind

How often should I have a mole check?

For most people, an annual check is sufficient, especially if you have risk factors like fair skin or a family history. 

However, if you’ve had skin cancer before, or if you have many moles, we might recommend checks every six months. Think of it like going to the dentist: regular checks catch problems early, when they’re easiest to treat.

What Happens During A Dermatologist Mole Check?

Not knowing what to expect can make you feel anxious. Within your appointment, you can expect a welcoming, safe and private environment. We believe looking after your skin shouldn’t feel clinical or cold. It should feel like taking care of your future.

Our London dermatologists see hundreds of moles every month – both in the NHS and privately – so you’re in good hands.

1. Initial Consultation
   We’ll start with a quick chat about your skin history to find out what’s new, what’s changed and what’s on your mind. 
2. A Full Skin Examination
   You’ll be asked to undress to your underwear so we can examine your entire body, especially areas you can’t easily see yourself, such as your scalp, behind your ears, between your toes, and your back. Skin cancer can develop anywhere, even in areas that rarely see the sun.
3. Dermoscopy
   For any moles that need closer inspection, we’ll use a dermatoscope. This hand-held device illuminates and magnifies the mole, allowing us to see patterns and structures that indicate whether it’s benign or needs further investigation.
4. Photography (if needed)
   For any moles we want to monitor, we may take photos. This is so we can track any changes over time.
5. Clear Communication
   Throughout the appointment, we’ll explain what we’re seeing and why. If something needs removal or further testing, we’ll talk you through the process step by step.

What Happens If There’s Cause for Concern?

Most moles turn out to be benign, but if we do find something that needs further investigation, here’s what happens next:

Biopsy or Removal
We can often remove a suspicious mole on the same day or schedule you in within the week. The procedure is done under local anaesthetic and is usually very quick, most patients are surprised by how straightforward it is. Find out more about a mole removal procedure at No23. Skin.

Lab Analysis
The removed mole is sent to a specialist lab where it’s examined under a microscope. Results typically come back within 7 days.

Follow-Up Appointment
We’ll book you in to discuss the results. If the mole was cancerous, we’ll talk through your treatment options and create a plan tailored to you.

Ongoing Monitoring
If you’ve had one type of skin cancer, you’re at higher risk of developing another, so we’ll recommend regular follow-up checks, usually every 3-6 months to begin with, or annually if your dermatologist is happy that your skin is not changing.

Why Regular Checks Matter

Something we hear often at No. 23 is “I’ve been worried about this mole for months, but I kept putting off coming in.” Life is busy, and it’s easy to convince yourself you’re probably fine. But here’s the thing: the worry doesn’t go away. It sits there at the back of your mind, creating anxiety that can affect your daily life.

A mole check will reassure you; the vast majority of moles we see are completely benign. You can stop worrying and get on with your life.

If there is something concerning, catching it early makes treatment simpler, more effective, and less invasive.

We take time to listen, explain what we’re seeing, and answer all your questions—mole-related or not. Because good skin health is about the whole picture. Read some of our real patients’ stories here. 

Ready to Book Your Mole Check?

We know that deciding to book a mole check can feel like a big step. But the reality is an appointment with our dermatologists can give you peace of mind or catch something early when it’s most treatable.

Early action saves lives – and at No.23 Skin, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

At No. 23 Skin, our consultant dermatologists bring years of specialist training and a calm, reassuring approach. We’re here to look after you, whether that’s confirming everything’s fine or taking swift action if it’s not.

Book your mole check today:
Call us on 0203 9411 815 or book online now. 

Helen & Dr Cherry
CoFounders
No. 23 Skin

Address: 23 Ansdell Street, London W8 5BN

NB: this post is for information only and should not be used in place of specialist dermatology advice that is provided within an appointment with us, your dermatologist, or your GP. Always seek advice for suspicious moles – privately or with your GP in the NHS.