Originally Posted On: https://sloanestreetsurgery.co.uk/articles/skin-cancer-and-understanding-moles/

Skin Cancer and Understanding Moles

It’s that time of the year when the sun is out and the suncream beckons. So, it’s a good time as any to be thinking about skin care and skin cancer awareness.

Your skin is the body’s largest organ. It covers and protects everything inside you. Our skin helps us to:

• Keep out harmful germs
• Regulate body temperature
• Sense touch, pain, and pressure
• Prevent water loss

It’s made up of three main layers:

1. Epidermis – the outer layer, where new skin cells form and where moles appear
2. Dermis – the middle layer with nerves, blood vessels, and hair roots
3. Fat layer (subcutaneous tissue) – the bottom layer that insulates and cushions your body

A mole (also called a naevus) is a small growth on the skin that happens when melanocytes (the cells that give skin its colour) grow in clusters instead of spreading out. Most people have 10 to 40 moles on their body. Most moles are harmless and may be:

• Flat or raised
• Brown, black, pink, or skin-coloured
• Present at birth or develop over time (usually during childhood or teenage years)

Why do moles appear?

Moles can appear due to:

• Genetics – You may inherit a tendency to have more moles.
• Sun exposure – UV rays can trigger mole development or darken existing ones.
• Hormonal changes – Moles may appear or change during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.

 Are all moles permanent?

Not always. Some moles stay the same for life, while others may fade or disappear over time. However, any new, changing, or unusual-looking mole should be checked by your GP.

Can moles turn into skin cancer?

Yes, although most moles are benign (non-cancerous), some can develop into melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. Changes in size, shape, or colour of a mole, or the appearance of a new one, may be early warning signs.

How do I know if a mole might need further review?

To help identify if your mole might need further review, we recommend using the ABCDE rule to check your moles:

• A – Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other.
• B – Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.
• C – Colour: Varied shades of brown, black, or other colours.
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm
• E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, colour, or symptoms (itching, bleeding).

If you notice any of these signs, please get reviewed by your GP or dermatologist.

What are the different types of skin cancer?

The three most common types are:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): Most common and slow growing. Rarely spreads but can damage surrounding tissue.
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Can grow and spread if untreated.
• Melanoma: Less common but more dangerous. Can spread quickly to other parts of the body.

Who is at higher risk for skin cancer?

Skin cancer can affect anyone, but certain individuals face a significantly higher risk due to genetic traits, lifestyle habits, and medical history. Understanding these risk factors is key to early detection and prevention. Risk factors include:

• Fair skin, light eyes or hair
• History of sunburns or excessive sun exposure
• Use of tanning beds
• Family or personal history of skin cancer
• Having many or unusual moles
• A weakened immune system

How can I protect my skin and prevent skin cancer?

Here’s how to take care of your skin:

• Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days. Recommended is SPF 50 for the face and on sunny days apply twice a day.
• Avoid tanning beds and prolonged sun exposure.
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when outside.
• Stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is strongest.
• Do regular skin self-exams and have a yearly skin check with a dermatologist or your GP.

What should I do if I notice a suspicious mole or skin change?

Don’t wait—make an appointment with your GP. Early detection of skin cancer, especially melanoma, can save lives. A skin exam is quick and usually painless.

Can moles be removed?

Yes, moles can be removed for medical or cosmetic reasons. Your doctor may recommend removal if a mole looks suspicious or causes discomfort. Never try to remove a mole at home.

How often should I check my skin?

You should examine your skin once a month using a mirror. Look for any new moles or changes to existing ones. Don’t forget hard-to-see areas like your scalp, back, and soles of your feet.

What is mole mapping?

Mole mapping is a medical procedure that involves taking detailed photographs of your skin to create a visual record of all your moles, birthmarks, and other skin lesions. It’s used to monitor changes in your skin over time and detect early signs of skin cancer—especially melanoma.   Ask one of our GPs for recommendations regarding Mole Mapping.

Why would someone need mole mapping?

Mole mapping is especially helpful for people who are at higher risk for skin cancer, such as:

• Those with many moles (especially over 50)
• People with atypical or irregular-looking moles
• Individuals with a personal or family history of melanoma
• People with very fair skin who burn easily
• Those with weakened immune systems

It helps catch changes that may not be noticeable during a regular skin check.

What should I know about children and moles?

It’s normal for children to develop moles as they grow. However, any rapidly growing or unusual-looking moles should be checked by a paediatrician or GP.

Worried about a mole?

Skin moles are usually harmless, but they can sometimes signal something more serious like skin cancer. By staying informed, doing regular self-checks, and seeing one of our GPs or a dermatologist when needed, you can protect your skin and your health.

If you’ve noticed a new or changing mole, or simply want peace of mind, don’t delay. Early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer. Book an appointment with one of our experienced GPs to discuss your skin concerns or to find out more about mole mapping. Call us on 0207 2459333 or book online using this link.

References

• BAD (British Association of Dermatology) Medical handbook
• MH Medical: Skin Cancer: A Comprehensive Guide

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