‘I’m a skin specialist – this little known change in moles is the biggest skin cancer risk’

A skincare consultant has shared the importance of looking after your moles in the hot weather – and what unusual signs might be indicating you need to get them checked out

We all know the importance of keeping check of moles – but do you really know what you’re looking for? Moles come in all shapes and sizes but if you notice any of these little changes, you should go and get them properly looked at. A simple and correct check could save your life.

With heatwave temperatures only getting hotter, it’s more important than ever to look after your skin and your moles, and Miss Parneet Gill, consultant plastic surgeon (specialising in skin cancer) at sk:n clinics has shared her top tips.

In reality, experts say even short bursts of unprotected sun exposure can cause long-term skin damage and increase your risk of skin cancer so it’s always best to be safe.

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Miss Gill said: “Just 10–15 minutes of unprotected exposure can trigger long-term UV damage – especially if repeated. People often underestimate the risk of cumulative sun exposure. Even a quick walk, or sitting near a window, can cause DNA changes in the skin that increase the risk of skin cancer.”

Early detection is crucial, and mole mapping can be a great way to keep on top of your skin. It’s a procedure that uses photography and sometimes dermoscopy (a specialised type of skin examination) to create a detailed record of a person’s moles.

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The record made includes information and images about the mole’s size, shape, and colour, and is then used to track changes in the moles over time. This helps in the early detection of skin cancers, particularly melanoma, by identifying moles that are changing or showing signs of malignancy

Skin cancer doesn’t always look ‘dangerous’,” added Miss Gill. “That’s why we advise an annual mole check for anyone with fair skin, a high number of moles, frequent UV exposure, or a family history of melanoma. Mole Mapping allows us to detect potential issues before they become serious.”

So it’s important to know the signs, and when it’s time to seek some help. The expert team at sk:n recommend using the ABCDE rule to self-check moles:

• Asymmetry
• Border irregularity
• Colour variation
• Diameter over 6mm
• Evolution or change over time

Another red flag that people may not think are concerns is itching, as well as bleeding or a mole that looks noticeably different from the rest. If you notice any of these, don’t delay – get checked by a medical expert.

If you are worried or have any skin concerns, it’s recommended to speak to your GP or health professional. Alternatively you can find out more information about melanoma on the NHS website here.

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