Regular mole checks are a vital part of maintaining your skin health. Dr Tabi Leslie, a highly respected dermatologist, emphasises the importance of vigilance when it to comes to monitoring your moles. Understanding what moles are, when to have them checked and what a mole check involves is important so you’re ready for your appointment. Dr Leslie offers mole checks London residents can fit into their busy schedules.
What is a mole?
A mole, also known as a naevus, is a common type of skin growth. It appears as a small, dark spot on the skin and can vary in size, shape, and colour. Moles are typically benign, meaning they are non-cancerous. They form when pigment-producing cells in the skin, called melanocytes, grow in clusters. While most moles are harmless, it’s important to be aware that some can change over time or, in rare cases, develop into melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Factors such as genetics and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can influence the number and appearance of moles on your body.
When should you book in for a mole check?
Regular self-examinations are essential for identifying any new or changing moles. You should aim to check your skin thoroughly once a month, paying attention to areas that are not easily visible, such as your back or scalp. However, professional mole checks are also a good idea, particularly if you have many moles, a history of sunburn or a family history of skin cancer.
You should book an appointment for a professional mole check with a dermatologist like Dr Tabi Leslie if you notice any of the following changes in a mole:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
- Colour: The colour is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, tan, white, red, or blue.
- Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimetres (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, colour, or elevation, or if it starts to itch, bleed, or become tender.
Early detection of skin cancer improves treatment outcomes, making these checks incredibly important.
What happens at a mole check appointment?
When you attend a mole check appointment with Dr Tabi Leslie, you can expect a thorough and professional examination of your skin. The process begins with Dr Leslie taking a medical history, including any concerns you have about specific moles and your personal or family history of skin cancer.
Next, a visual examination of your entire skin surface will be performed. Dr Leslie will inspect each mole for any suspicious characteristics. She may use a dermatoscope, a specialised handheld microscope, to get a magnified view of the mole’s structure and pigment patterns. This allows for a more detailed assessment that isn’t possible with the naked eye. If any moles appear suspicious, Dr Leslie will discuss the next steps with you. This might involve monitoring the mole over time or, in some cases, recommending a biopsy for further investigation. The appointment is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you have about mole health and receive personalised advice on sun protection and self-examination techniques.
Appointments with Dr Tabi Leslie for Mole Checks London
Taking care of your skin is an investment in your long-term health. Dr Tabi Leslie offers expert mole checks London patients can rely on. These checks provide peace of mind and professional guidance. She offers several clinics in convenient locations across London, and you can book in via each clinic’s individual booking platform, found on the contact page here.