Archive for category: Uncategorized

Moles are often considered based on how they look on the surface, but from a medical perspective, they are classified according to where pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) sit within the skin. This scientific classification is important because the depth of melanocyte clusters influences how a mole appears, how it may change over time, and how clinicians assess risk.

Understanding these differences helps explain why some moles are flat, others raised, and why professional skin checks and full-body mole mapping are essential for accurate monitoring.

Why Skin Depth Matters in Mole Classification

The skin is made up of multiple layers, primarily the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deeper layer). Melanocytes can sit at different depths within these layers, and this positioning determines:

• The colour of the mole
• Whether it is flat or raised
• How it evolves over time
• How it is assessed during a mole check

Medical professionals use this classification to predict behaviour and identify which moles require closer monitoring.

Junctional Naevi

Junctional naevi occur when melanocyte clusters sit at the junction between the epidermis and dermis.

Typical features

• Usually flat
• Darkly pigmented, often brown or black
• Smooth surface
• Common in children and young adults

Because these moles sit closer to the skin surface, pigment appears darker and more uniform. Junctional naevi often remain stable, but any changes in size, shape, or colour should be assessed, particularly as melanoma can also arise at this junction.

Compound Naevi

Compound naevi develop when melanocytes are present in both the epidermis and the dermis.

Typical features

• Slightly raised
• Clearly pigmented
• Often round or oval
• Common during adolescence and adulthood

As pigment cells extend deeper into the skin, the mole becomes more raised. Compound naevi are very common and typically benign, but changes in symmetry, colour variation, or border definition should be monitored through a professional mole check.

Intradermal Naevi

Intradermal naevi form when melanocytes are located entirely within the dermis, deeper beneath the skin surface.

Typical features

• Raised or dome-shaped
• Often skin-coloured or lightly pigmented
• Softer texture
• Common in adults

Because pigment cells are deeper, these moles may appear paler and less defined. Over time, intradermal naevi can lose pigment entirely. While usually harmless, raised moles that catch on clothing or change in appearance should still be assessed clinically.

How Moles Can Change Over Time

It’s not unusual for a mole to evolve from one classification to another as melanocytes migrate deeper into the skin. For example:

• A junctional naevus may become a compound naevus
• A compound naevus may later appear intradermal

This natural progression is one reason why baseline mole mapping and follow-up comparisons are so valuable in identifying abnormal changes versus normal ageing.

Other Less Common Types of Moles

While junctional, compound, and intradermal naevi account for the majority of moles, clinicians may also encounter:

Halo Moles

• Surrounded by a pale or white ring
• Caused by an immune response targeting pigment cells
• Often benign but should still be assessed

Spitz Moles

• Pink, red, or raised
• Most common in children and young adults
• Can resemble melanoma clinically and often require specialist evaluation

Blue Nevi

• Blue or grey in colour due to deep pigment placement
• Usually benign
• Occasionally monitored if changes occur

Each of these mole types has a distinct risk profile, reinforcing the importance of expert assessment.

Why Professional Mole Checks Are Essential

Understanding the scientific classification of moles allows dermatologists to:

• Identify which moles are normal for your skin
• Recognise early warning signs of melanoma
• Track subtle changes using dermoscopy
• Decide when monitoring or removal is appropriate

This is why full-body mole checks — also known as top-to-toe mole checks or mole mapping — are recommended, particularly for patients with multiple, atypical, or changing moles.

Book a Professional Mole Check

If you have moles that concern you, or simply want reassurance, a professional skin examination provides clarity and peace of mind.
Our specialists offer comprehensive mole checks, dermoscopic assessment, and personalised advice based on clinical findings.

Book your full-body mole check today to ensure early detection and ongoing skin health.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering diagnosis and treatment for skin lesions including moles, cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma, xanthelasma, milia. All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field. Patients benefit from:

• No waiting lists
• Fully trained doctors, registered with GMC
• Blemishes can usually be removed in the same appointment as the consultation, saving the need for a repeat visit and allowing patients to get very quick treatment
• Choice of 4 clinics in London plus one in Bristol
• Testing with report provided where necessary

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7731 3791.

Understanding the types of moles you may have on your skin is essential for monitoring changes and knowing when to seek medical advice. While this article focuses on how moles form, recognising the differences between moles helps explain why they look and behave differently.

Common (Acquired) Moles

Common moles, sometimes called acquired moles, are the type most people are familiar with. They typically develop in childhood or early adulthood and often appear anywhere on the body. Key characteristics include:

• Shape: Round or oval
• Borders: Smooth and well-defined
• Colour: Usually a single shade of brown, tan, or pink
• Size: Typically small, less than 6mm in diameter

These moles are usually benign and harmless. Most do not require treatment unless they become irritated, change in appearance, or are in areas where they are frequently rubbed by clothing. While common moles rarely develop into skin cancer, it’s still important to check them regularly for any changes.

Congenital Moles

Congenital moles are present from birth or appear shortly afterwards. They can vary significantly in size, shape, and colour:

• Size: Can be small (less than 1cm) or large (more than 20cm in rare cases)
• Texture: May be flat or raised
• Colour: Range from light brown to very dark brown or even black

Large congenital moles, especially those that cover significant areas of the skin, may require closer medical monitoring, as they carry a slightly higher lifetime risk of developing melanoma. Most small congenital moles are harmless but should still be included in regular skin checks.

Dysplastic (Atypical) Moles

Dysplastic moles, also known as atypical moles, are less common but important to monitor closely. They form in the same way as common moles but differ in appearance:

• Size: Often larger than ordinary moles
• Borders: Irregular, blurred, or scalloped edges
• Colour: Mixed shades of brown, red, pink, or black
• Shape: Uneven or asymmetrical

Although dysplastic moles are not cancerous, they are associated with a higher risk of developing melanoma compared to regular moles. Individuals with multiple dysplastic moles or a family history of melanoma are often advised to have regular full-body mole checks or mole mapping to monitor for any changes over time.

Monitoring and When to Seek Advice

Regardless of the type, any mole that shows signs of change should be assessed by a trained professional. Watch for the ABCDE signs:

• A – Asymmetry : One half of the mole doesn’t match the other
• B – Border : Irregular or blurred edges
• C – Colour : Uneven or multiple colours
• D – Diameter : Larger than 6mm
• E – Evolving : Any noticeable change in size, shape, colour, or texture

Regular mole mapping or a full-body mole check can help track these changes over time and ensure early detection of any potential problems.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering diagnosis and treatment for skin lesions including moles, cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma, xanthelasma, milia. All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field. Patients benefit from:

• No waiting lists
• Fully trained doctors, registered with GMC
• Blemishes can usually be removed in the same appointment as the consultation, saving the need for a repeat visit and allowing patients to get very quick treatment
• Choice of 4 clinics in London plus one in Bristol
• Testing with report provided where necessary

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7731 3791.

Lots of men don’t think twice about their scalp once the hair starts thinning or receding — after all, if fewer follicles remain, how much damage can there be? Quite a lot, actually. Not just for appearance but for health.

The Hidden Risk

Dr Ross Perry, GP and founder of the London Mole Removal Centre, warns:

“Men who are bald or experiencing hair thinning are at a significantly higher risk of developing skin cancer, particularly on the scalp, as this is an area often overlooked in daily SPF routines.”

The scalp is one of the most sun-exposed parts of the body, yet many men assume that whatever hair remains offers protection. But as hair density decreases, UV rays more easily reach the skin. This skin is just as vulnerable — if not more so — than skin elsewhere, since it’s not always looked after.

Dr Perry continues:

“The scalp is one of the most sun-exposed parts of the body, yet many men fail to apply sunscreen there, assuming their hair still offers adequate protection.
“However, as hair density decreases, UV rays directly impact the sensitive skin of the scalp, which is just as vulnerable, if not more so than other areas of the body.
“Studies have shown that skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are more frequently found on the head and neck, and melanoma on the scalp carries a worse prognosis due to later detection.
“Therefore it’s best to apply a broad-spectrum SPF daily, even during winter, always wear a hat, and regular skin checks are super important for sun safety in men with thinning or no hair.”

This advice was published in the Daily Mail for its feature https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14816637/bald-head-thinning-hair-cancer-warning-sunburn.html

So what’s the evidence backing up those warnings, especially in the UK?

UK Melanoma & Skin Cancer Facts

Here are key facts about melanoma and sun protection attitudes in the UK, to put the risk into context:

• Melanoma is the 5th most common cancer in the UK . melanomauk.org.uk
• There are around 16,000-21,000 new melanoma cases each year . CosmeticsDesign-Europe.com
• Over the past decade, incidence rates have increased by about a third (≈30-32%) . The Independent
• A striking statistic: 86% of melanoma cases are considered preventable with better sun safety (avoiding overexposure, sunburn, etc.). melanomauk.org.uk
• UK survey data shows an alarming gap between knowledge and behaviour:
  • ~32% of Brits report rarely or never using sunscreen when in the UK. Campaign Collective
  • Only about 11% say they always use it. Campaign Collective
  • Men are especially likely to under-use sunscreen: in several surveys, ~40% of men said they rarely or never use sunscreen in the UK. Dr James Davies
• Cost and misconceptions play roles:
  • ~50% of people think sunblock is too expensive; many say they would use it more if it were cheaper. The Independent
  • Some don’t expect to burn (so put off using sunscreen), even though over half of respondents reported being sunburnt at least once a year. Dr James Davies

Why the Scalp Is Especially Important

Putting together Dr Perry’s warning and the UK data, the scalp in men with thinning hair is a “blind-spot” in sun safety. Specific reasons:

• Later detection 
  Lesions on the scalp are less likely to be spotted early because hair (or the shadow of hair) can hide them, especially by the time the skin is thinning. Melanomas on the scalp often carry a worse prognosis because they are discovered later. Dr Perry cites this directly.
• High exposure 
  The scalp is often exposed in sunlight (no hair or thin hair), especially when men don’t wear hats, or do not apply sunscreen there.
• Under‐protected 
  Many daily SPF routines ignore the scalp; even sunscreen users may concentrate on face, arms, legs, but forget that vulnerable patch behind or on top of the head.

What to Do: Checking & Protection

If you (or someone you care about) are experiencing hair thinning, balding or just regularly in strong sun, here are practical steps:

1. Regular scalp checks
   • Once a month, in good light, examine the scalp thoroughly. Use a mirror or ask someone to help — look for new growths, odd moles, pigmented spots, rough patches, scaly lesions, crusting, or anything that changes in colour, size or shape.
   • Be especially alert behind the ears, at the edge of the hairline, and the crown (top of the head).
2. Sun Protection Strategy
   • Daily broad-spectrum SPF (UVA + UVB). Even on cloudy days. Dr Perry’s advice: apply every day, even winter.
   • Use sunscreen that is suitable (non-greasy, easy to apply, ideally water-resistant if sweating).
   • Hats : wide-brimmed or cap with flap or something to shade the scalp.
   • If possible, wear clothing or head coverings that give shade.
3. Professional Skin Checks
   • Get a GP or dermatologist to look, especially if you find something unusual. Don’t wait for it to hurt; many skin cancers are painless in early stages.
   • Be ready to report changes: any lesion that itches, bleeds, crusts; or any mole/spot that has ABCDE signs (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter larger, Evolving).
4. Behaviour Changes
   • Avoid excessive sun exposure especially between 11 am–3 pm when UV radiation is strongest.
   • Avoid sunbeds. UK data shows sunbed use still contributes to melanoma risk. Cancer Research UK

Conclusion

If you’re balding or your hair is thinning, your risk from sun-damage to the scalp is higher than many people realise. As Dr Ross Perry says, it’s an area “often overlooked” — and that oversight can carry serious consequences.

Given how preventable many melanoma cases in the UK are (≈ 86%), even modest changes in how we protect and inspect the scalp could save lives. It’s not about fear, but awareness — checking your scalp, using sunscreen, wearing a hat, and seeing a professional if you see anything unusual. Better safe than sorry.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a trading name of Cosmedics Skin Clinics. There are 4 locations offering diagnosis and treatment for skin lesions including moles, cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma, xanthelasma, milia. All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field. Patients benefit from:

• No waiting lists
• Fully trained doctors, registered with GMC
• Blemishes can usually be removed in the same appointment as the consultation, saving the need for a repeat visit and allowing patients to get very quick treatment
• Choice of 4 clinics in London plus one in Bristol
• Testing with report provided where necessary

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7731 3791.

After mole removal, it’s essential to follow proper aftercare to promote healing and minimise scarring.

Here 10 practical tips to help you care for your skin post-procedure:

1. Keep the Area Clean
   • Gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water daily.
   • Avoid scrubbing, and use your fingertips for washing rather than a rough cloth or sponge.
   • Pat the area dry with a clean towel; do not rub the skin.
2. Protect from Infection
   • Apply a thin layer of ointment to the area after cleaning. Silicon gel is ideal for this as it hydrates the skin while also providing lightweight protection.
   • If you’ve been advised to cover the wound, use a clean dressing.
3. Avoid Picking or Scratching
   • Avoid picking at scabs or peeling skin as this can increase the risk of scarring and infection.
   • If itching occurs, try a non-prescription antihistamine or consult your doctor/surgeon for recommendations.
4. Sun Protection
   • Minimise sun exposure to the healing area. If sun exposure is unavoidable, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) once the wound has closed and healed enough to tolerate it.
   • Wear protective clothing or a wide-brimmed hat to shield the area from the sun.
5. Moisturise Regularly
   • Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser to keep the area hydrated or else a silicone gel as recommended. Moisturising the skin can help with the healing process and reduce the chances of scarring.
6. Follow Activity Restrictions
   • Avoid strenuous activities or exercise for at least a few days as directed by your healthcare provider to limit sweat and irritation to the area – especially if the wound is in an awkward position prone to rubbing or pulling.
7. Watch for Signs of Infection
   • Be vigilant for increased redness, swelling, pus, or discomfort. If you notice any worrying signs, contact your clinic promptly for advice.
8. Follow-Up Appointments
   • Attend any follow-up appointments as scheduled to ensure proper healing and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
9. Stay Hydrated and Healthy
   • Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support healing. Stay hydrated to promote overall skin health.
10. Patience with Recovery
    • Understand that healing takes time. Scars can generally take months to fade, so be patient as your skin recovers.

By following these aftercare tips and staying proactive with your skin health, you can help ensure a smooth recovery and reduce the appearance of any resulting scars from your mole removal. Always consult our friendly team if you have specific concerns or questions regarding your aftercare.

For full guidelines and detailed account of what to expect, see mole removal aftercare.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering private mole checks and mole removal treatment for unwanted moles. The experienced doctors and surgeons also offer removal treatment for a range of other skin lesions (e.g. cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma, xanthelasma).

All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field.

Further advantages of private treatment at the London Mole Removal Centre include:

• No waiting lists
• Fully trained doctors, registered with GMC
• Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation, saving the need for a repeat visit and allowing patients to get their skin lesions removed very quickly
• Choice of 4 clinics in London and also Bristol
• Removed moles tested with report provided

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7731 3791.

May is the annual ‘Skin Cancer Awareness Month’, organised by the American Skin Cancer Foundation – an annual event designed to raise awareness of skin cancer including how to prevent, detect and treat it. 

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, with an estimated 6.6 million cases in 2021. UV radiation is a primary risk factor for skin cancer, with melanoma being more common in fair-skinned individuals. Having just 5 or more sunburns in your lifetime doubles your risk for melanoma and 90% of non melanoma and 85% of melanoma cases are associated with sun exposure. However, sunburn is quite preventable, so campaigners are reminding people to protect themselves from the adverse effects of sun exposure by using high factor SPF and covering up or avoiding the sun where possible.

What’s more, skin cancer is often treatable when detected early – the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%. That’s why self-checking is so important.

The Big See® Campaign

Skin cancer often goes undetected in the early stages, to this year, Skin Cancer Awareness Month is reminding people to seek attention for any concerns, so that skin cancer can be identified and treated before it has a chance to spread.

Skin cancer is the big C you can SEE.

The message is to check yourself regularly and get to know your skin so that you can spot any new, changing or unusual blemishes and get them checked out for peace of mind.

 

 

Do the #SkinCheckChallenge™

Skin Cancer Awareness Month

The American Skin Cancer Foundation are promoting the #SkinCheckChallenge for Skin Cancer Awareness Month:

• First, check your skin from head to toe. Look for anything new, changing or unusual.
• Post a photo or video of your skin check and share it online with the hashtag #SkinCheckChallenge.
• Share a “thumbs up” pic or get creative! Tag and tell if you found anything.
• Finally, invite two friends to do it too.

Key skin cancer tips

1/ Preventing skin cancer

• Regular daily use of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen reduces the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by about 40% and reduces the risk of developing melanoma by 50%. Experts recommend using SPF 50+ every day of the year
• Seek the shade especially between 11am-3pm
• Avoid tanning and sunburn
• Never use UV tanning beds
• Cover up with clothing, wide-brimmed hat and UV blocking sunglasses
• Ensure you’ve used plenty of sunscreen and reapply frequently, especially after swimming or when sweating

2/ Detecting skin cancer

• Vigilance is more important than ever and everyone is encouraged to self-check and be aware of the signs
• Examine your skin head to toe every month, looking for unusual blemishes, moles or skin lesions. In particular, check for:
  • Asymmetry in the shape of the mole
  • Borders that are uneven or notched
  • Coloration that is unusual in tone or patchy
  • Diameter that is larger than the eraser on a pencil
  • Evolving moles that change colour or size
• If you have any of the above or moles that behave in odd ways such as oozing/itching/bleeding, then see a GP as soon as possible for assessment. If they agree that your mole needs investigating, you’ll be referred to an NHS specialist for further assessment

3/ Treating skin cancer

• If your diagnosis points to skin cancer, NHS treatment is provided free of charge
• Treatment usually starts with removal of the skin cancer(s) and then biopsy/testing to assess them. In many cases, removal of the cancerous lesions resolves the problem and no further treatment is required. In some cases, there may need to be further procedures or treatments.
• The best outcomes are where the cancers are caught early. That’s why it is important to check the skin regularly and seek attention in case of any concerns

If your mole or lesion is deemed not to be cancerous or of any medical risk, in these cases the NHS no longer provide ‘cosmetic’ mole removal.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering private mole checks and mole removal treatment for unwanted moles. The experienced doctors and surgeons also offer removal treatment for a range of other skin lesions (e.g. cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma, xanthelasma).

All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field.

Further advantages of private treatment at the London Mole Removal Centre include:

• No waiting lists
• Fully trained doctors, registered with GMC
• Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation, saving the need for a repeat visit and allowing patients to get their skin lesions removed very quickly
• Choice of 4 clinics in London plus one in Bristol
• Removed moles tested with report provided

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7731 3791.