Why Surgery Is the Best Treatment for Cysts

Sebaceous Cyst Removal

Cysts are very common lumps found under the skin. They are usually quite round in shape and are filled with fluid or sometimes a semi-solid material or even air – so you can often move a cyst around a little bit beneath the skin – somewhat like a pea.

Cysts don’t usually hurt and are not considered to be medically a concern. However, they can become infected or develop into boils or abscesses which are more serious. Even if that doesn’t happen, the appearance of the lump can be a concern for patients.

DIY Treatments for Cysts

DIY treatments for cysts are limited:

  • Patients may try holding a warm, damp flannel to the skin to encourage healing
  • Patients should never be tempted to lance or burst a cyst, as it can lead to infection

Surgical Removal

Sebaceous cysts can be quickly and effectively removed in a minor surgery procedure. This has advantages over other methods:

  • Effective way of removing a cyst
  • The doctor/surgeon will also try to completely remove the cyst sac (or wall), which should prevent the problem from developing again

Simply draining the cyst is far less effective as the cyst sac is left in place. This means that it can refill and grow again.

Surgery is the best way to ensure complete removal of the problem and minimise the risk of it recurring again.

Cyst Removal London & Bristol

The team at London Mole Removal Centre are highly trained and experienced in removal of unwanted cysts (and sebaceous cysts). Find out more in our Cyst Removal FAQ.

Book an Appointment

London Mole Removal Centre offer appointments at a choice of 5 private skin treatment centres based in London and Bristol. 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. Most skin lesions can be removed at the same appointment as the consultation, but there is no obligation to proceed unless and until both the patient and doctor are completely happy to do so.

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

Dr Ross Perry Sun Advice in Boots Magazine

‘What’s your suncare tribe?’

Dr Ross Perry, founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics and the London Mole Removal Centre, was invited to give his expert advice on suncare for the latest edition of Boots’ Health & Beauty magazine. 

Boots explored how the way you spend your holiday influences the best type of suncare routine. The article says:

“…whether we should be diligently layering on the factor 50 or slathering ourselves with once-a-day waterproof sunscreen, really depends on our complexion and holidaying habits”

Dr Ross Perry was invited to give his advice for ‘Action Girl’ types who are very active on holiday with watersports being a particular focus as well as hiking or biking. Ross advised:

“First things first, days are longer in summer, so you can help protect yourself by scheduling activities outside the times when the sun’s rays are strongest (that’s between 11am and 3pm in the UK and Europe.”

This is because as much as one third of UV radiation hits earth between those peak hours. It is the UV radiation which increases the risk of skin damage and ultimately UV radiation is the main cause of skin cancer.

If avoiding those peak hours isn’t possible, readers are advised to use waterproof sunscreen and always reapply after activities. Watersports, sweat and rubbing can all reduce the coverage of sunscreen, so it will need topping up regularly.

View Article

boots suncare tribe

Check for Skin Cancer

Even with the best suncare habits, regular ‘top to toe’ skin checks are highly recommended to spot changing moles or unusual skin lesions. Also be aware that issues can appear years after the original sun damage. Melanomas caught at the earliest stage can be treated with mole removal surgery. Early intervention has excellent outcomes and in many cases no further treatment is required. However, as melanoma progresses and spreads, the chances of a positive outcome decline.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering mole checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma etc) at 5 mole removal clinics.

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
  • Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation
  • Choice of 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.

Skin Cancer Causes 7 Deaths a Day UK

Sensible Sun Reminder

With the recent warm spell in the UK many Brits have seen their pale skin turn pink in the welcome sun, but experts are warning that sensible sun practices need to be maintained as a priority.

The British Skin Foundation website gives some stark statistics on skin cancer in the UK:

  • Over 2,500 deaths a year
  • At least over 100,000 new diagnoses every year
  • On average, someone who dies from skin cancer typically loses 20 years of their life

Sun Exposure Advice

UV exposure is the main cause of skin cancer and it is preventable with good sun safety practices.

  1. Sunscreen
    Use a minimum SPF30 – more for infants/elderly/sensitive skin
    Choose a product with a 4-5 star UVA rating
    Apply 20-30 minutes before going outside
    Reapply every couple of hours
    Do wear sunscreen even on cloudy days as the UV can still be damaging
  2. Avoiding peak sun
    The sun is at its highest around midday
    Stay indoors or in the shade between 11-3pm to avoid the strongest rays
  3. Cover up
    The right choice of attire can be very helpful in protecting against the skin
    Wear a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses
    Protect arms with long sleeved overshirt and wear loose trousers to cover the legs
    Don’t forget your feet – socks/shoes are going to give more protection than flip flops

Mole Checking

Many melanoma relate to past damage, so while it is essential to protect the skin from sun exposure, this won’t give any cover for previous damage – so we also need to be vigilant for melanoma which could have been triggered years ago.

Dr Ross Perry advises patients to look for the ‘ugly duckling’ sign – a mole that looks or behaves differently to normal and gives arise to suspicion or concern.

“At the end of the day, if the mole looks suspicious or you just have a ‘hunch’ that it’s wrong, then get it checked to be on the safe side.”

Mole Check – What to Look For

The ABCDE rule outlines the most suspicious signs of changing or different moles:

  • Asymmetry
  • Border is uneven
  • Colour is patchy or unusual
  • Diameter unusually large size
  • Evolving any change including appearance (size/shape/colour) or behaviour (itchiness/discharge/bleeding)

Private Mole Checks & Removal

If in doubt about any skin lesions, it is important to get them checked as early as possible.

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering mole checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma etc) at 5 mole removal clinics.

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
  • Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation
  • Choice of 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.

What is UV Radiation?

Ultraviolet Rays

We are told to be careful about UV radiation, but what exactly is it and why is it a risk to the skin?

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of energy. It is produced by the sun and also some artificial sources which replicate the sun (i.e. tanning beds or solariums).

UV light is categorised by 1 of three wavelengths:

  • UVA
  • UVB
  • UVC

UVC does not reach our skin as it is absorbed by the ozone layer, so is not a concern. However, both UVA and UVB rays can be very damaging to the skin.

Ultraviolet radiation is not visible to the naked eye, but when the skin is exposed to UV rays, it starts to produce pigmentation in an attempt to stop UV radiation reaching the deeper skin tissues. This is noticeable as the skin turns darker – but it is important to understand that ‘tanning’ is the body’s reaction to UV exposure – your skin is trying to protect itself against UVA rays.

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun doesn’t only cause tanning, there are other less attractive potential risks:

  • UV rays are the main cause of skin cancer (e.g. squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma)
  • UV damage can cause premature ageing (pigmentation, lines and wrinkles) and can even damage the eyes
  • UV rays can reduce collagen which makes the skin more prone to lines, wrinkles, loss of volume and sagginess
  • Risk of solar elastosis (thick/yellow skin caused by the sun)
  • Sunburn in the short term – pink/red, sore, painful skin, which may then ‘peel’

On a cloudy day, over 80% of UV radiation can still make it through. That’s why skin experts recommend a good quality, high SPF sunscreen every day of the year, to protect the skin.

Skin Cancer Protection and Detection

It is very important to be vigilant for changing moles and odd skin lesions, as issues can appear years after the original sun damage.

Melanomas caught at the earliest stage can be treated very easily with mole removal surgery. Early treatment has excellent outcomes, but as melanoma progresses and spreads, the chances of a positive outcome decline.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma etc) at 5 mole removal clinics.

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
  • Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation
  • Choice of 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.

Dr Ross Perry – Tatler ‘Top Doctor’

Tatler Beauty & Cosmetic Surgery Guide 2018

Tatler Beauty Cosmetic Surgery Guide 2018Dr Ross Perry, founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics and the London Mole Removal Centre, was included as one of the ‘Top Doctors’ in the 2018 Tatler Beauty & Cosmetic Surgery Guide. 

He is included in the ‘BOTOX®’ section but the Tatler guide also mentions his skill and renown for mole removal, a procedure which he is famed for having carried out literally thousands of procedures in his career.

Tatler’s Beauty & Cosmetic Surgery Guide described Dr Ross Perry as follows:

“Dr Perry is a doctor in the old-fashioned sense: level-headed, practical and charming. This Cosmedics founder splits his time between his sleek new Harley Street premises and his popular Putney flagship, where he sticks to tried-and-tested treatments –

‘Ones that you do daily, and that you know will work.’

“Like Botox, which he administers sparingly, pausing after each injection to press firmly where the needle has entered to stop bruising. But he also uses the toxin functionally, for example, injecting a tiny amount into chickenpox scars to help soften their appearance. (And while he’s there, he might whip off a mole or two).”

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering mole checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma etc) at 5 mole removal clinics.

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
  • Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation
  • Choice of 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.

Health & Wellbeing: 30 Seconds to Health – Mole Checks

Health & Wellbeing magazine took a look at quick and vital health checks that should be carried out as a vital DIY health measure in their Top Story: 

“30 seconds to health – Give your body an MOT in just half a minute with these expert-approved checks”

The article was compiled with assistance from a variety of health professionals, who advised what can be done in the comfort of your own home.

The section on moles features advice from Cosmedics Skin Clinics’ founder and Medical Director, Dr Ross Perry, who provided his expert advice.

Moles

Dr Perry told Health & Wellbeing:

“As ever, skin cancer is on the rise and it’s not just during the summer when we need to be aware of any changes to existing moles or new ones.

“It takes seconds to look over your whole body, including areas such as the soles of your feet and your bottom (even though they get little or no sunlight, they could still be affected). Get your partner or a family member to check your back and any places that you can’t see directly yourself. Look out for any dark or irregular moles that seem different from the others, particularly if they’re raise, crusty, flaky, bleeding, itchy or have changed shape, size or colour.

“If you do find one, it’s more than likely to be nothing to worry about, but book an appointment with your GP as soon as possible to rule out any initial concerns.”

Other 30 second health checks

Other vital DIY health checks included in the article included:

  • Breasts
  • Eyes
  • Urine
  • Arteries
  • Gums

The article stresses that these don’t replace a visit to the doctor if there is a concern, saying:

“Of course, these tests aren’t intended to replace a visit to your doctor – always get looked at by your GP as soon as possible if anything is amiss.”

Private Mole Checks & Removal

If in doubt about any skin lesions, it is important to get them checked as early as possible.

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering mole checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma etc) at 5 mole removal clinics.

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
  • Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation
  • Choice of 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.

Sun Exposure Warning for Skiers

It’s half term next week and many families are looking forward to enjoying the best snow the Alps has seen in many years. Resorts are set to be busy and the winter olympics is adding extra excitement and inspiration too. 

But experts are warning skiers not to be complacent when it comes to sun exposure, as being outdoors all day at high altitudes means that the skin is at risk of sunburn and sun damage.

So the fact that it’s cold is no protection for your skin and it’s important to take measures to protect it against harmful UV radiation.

Why is Skiing a Skin Risk?

  • Higher altitude means more intense UV rays and therefore a greater risk of sun-induced skin damage
    • UV radiation exposure increases 4-5% with every 1,000 feet above sea level
    • At an altitude of 9,000 to 10,000 feet, UV radiation may be 35-45% more intense than at sea level
  • Snow reflects up to 80% of the UV light from the sun, intensifying the exposure and increasing the risk
  • Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays can penetrate
  • Snow, wind, sweat and clothing rubbing can wear away sunscreen, so it doesn’t give as much protection as you’d think
  • You could be out in the sun all day, much longer than you’re used to for many people, so never underestimate the sun

Sun Protection Advice for Skiing

  • Use sunscreen with an SPF 30+
  • Apply 30 minutes before hitting the slopes to all exposed skin including ears, eyes, neck
  • Reapply every couple of hours – even for products that claim to last all day
  • Use a lip balm with sun protection of SPF15+
  • Carry a travel-sized sunscreen and lip balm to reapply
  • Wearing goggles, sunglasses, ski masks etc will give some protection and is a good idea, but don’t neglect to put sunscreen on as well
  • Look for sunglasses or goggles that offer 99%  UV protection or more to protect sensitive skin around your eyes. This is a common area for skin cancers and sun-induced aging
  • If you stop for a drink or snack in the sun and ‘peel off’ layers of clothing, apply sunscreen to any areas that you may have missed e.g. chest, hands
  • Avoid skiing when the sun is at its peak
  • Remember to help children as their skin is even more sensitive. Ensure they’re well protected for ski lessons and have extra sunscreen with them to top up as needed

Odd Moles?

If you spot any unusual moles or skin blemishes, do not hesitate to see a doctor to rule out skin cancer.  Those that pursue an active outdoor lifestyle need to be especially alert.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma etc) at 5 mole removal clinics.

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
  • Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation
  • Choice of 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.

Treatment for Lumps, Bumps and Blemishes

More than Moles!

Cosmedics Skin Clinics’ London Mole Removal Centre is naturally associated with treating moles and that is indeed an expertise for the team of doctors and skin surgeons. 

However, as well as treating moles, the company also offer services for a host of other lumps, bumps, blemishes and skin lesions of all types.

It is not always easy to identify or diagnose a skin problem and patients often don’t know what to do about something that it is a bit odd but probably not a mole. It could be a tiny lesion or something more noticeable. Sometimes it is a raised area and could be firm or pliable to the touch. There may be discoloration too. Some patients have a ‘crop’ of skin lesions or blemishes while others experience just one issue.

The team at London Mole Removal Centre are highly trained and experienced in recognising and diagnosing skin conditions. Their expertise and equipment mean that as well as removing unwanted moles, they can also offer laser, microcautery, surgery or cryotherapy (freezing) treatment for a wide range of issues, including:

Book an Appointment

London Mole Removal Centre offer appointments at a choice of 5 private skin treatment centres based in London and Bristol. 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. Most skin lesions can be removed at the same appointment as the consultation, but there is no obligation to proceed unless and until both the patient and doctor are completely happy to do so.

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

New Harley Street Mole Removal Clinic Now Open

The London Mole Removal Centre is now operating in new premises on London’s Harley Street, the UK’s most famous area for medical treatments.

The new site is larger than previously and has been refurbished to the Medical Director’s exacting specification in order to provide the best possible facilities for treating moles and other troublesome skin lesions; as well as an expansion in the clinics and appointments available to cater for growing demand.

Qualified doctors offer a range of treatments for blemishes, lumps and bumps; including:

Harley Street Vein Treatment Centre

Their new location address is:

41 Harley Street
London
W1G 8QH

Photos – See our New Clinic

41 harley street 41 harley street reception harley st mole removal

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering mole checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma etc) at 5 mole removal clinics.

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.

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

Mirror.co.uk: Risks of Skin Cancer in Winter

The Mirror online edition (mirror.co.uk), looks into the often overlooked risks of skin cancer in winter in a feature entitled:

“Christmas shoppers under threat from killer winter sun – warns skin cancer expert as he warns we are ignoring risks”

Cosmedics Skin Clinics’ founder and Medical Director, Dr Ross Perry, was invited to give expert advice on the matter.

Mole Checking

Dr Perry told The Mirror that while the risks of sun damage in winter should never be underestimated, the winter is also a really good time for checking over your skin for any suspicious moles or lesions. He explains:

melanoma

Melanoma on the shoulder

“There is naturally less tan at this time of year, which means that any worrying symptoms are easier to spot against the contrast of lighter skin.

“A mole check should be carried out top to toe and include bits that have never seen the sun – from the scalp and between the hair to behind the ears, in the armpits and groin and even between the toes.”

ABCDE Mole Check

“The ABCDE rule outlines 5 things to look for as suspicious signs:

  • Asymmetry: a mole that looks a bit lop-sided or uneven with a different shape from left to right.
  • Border: mole edges that are not smooth – so they appear rough looking or notched – could indicate an early melanoma.
  • Colour: should be a fairly uniform block – patchy variation of colour is another warning sign. Also look for unusual hues compared to other moles.
  • Diameter: anything larger than the size of a pencil eraser could be cause for concern, but don’t ignore any that are small but suspicious in other ways
  • Evolving: moles which seem to be changing in size, shape, colour or height are deemed risky. Also watch out for itchiness, discharge, bleeding or crustiness.

“Patients certainly don’t have to have all symptoms present – any one of these could be enough and if the mole looks suspicious it should be checked out.

“Equally the above is not a comprehensive list – perhaps the most important factor is what we call the ‘ugly duckling’ sign – which means a mole or skin lesion which looks ‘odd’, unnatural and somehow different to their others. At the end of the day, if the mole looks suspicious or you just have a ‘hunch’ that it’s wrong, then get it checked to be on the safe side.”

mirror logoPatients with any concerns are urged to seek attention. Dr Perry concludes:

“In case of any doubts, do see a doctor for a diagnosis. Hopefully the GP can put your mind at rest, but if there’s any concern, they will arrange a referral if necessary to rule out any cause for concern or else arrange treatment.”

Read the article in full at http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/british-christmas-shoppers-under-threat-11715311.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

If in doubt about any skin lesions, it is important to get them checked as early as possible.

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering mole checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma etc) at 5 mole removal clinics.

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
  • Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation
  • Choice of 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.