Express: Age Spots vs Skin Cancer

Dr Ross Perry, Media Health Expert

The Express asked Dr Ross Perry to provide his expert advice on how melanoma may be mistakenly identified as age spots, raising health risks for those unaware of the real problem.

While age spots are a benign/harmless cosmetic issue relating to pigmentation, melanoma is much more serious. It is a type of skin cancer. If not caught early enough, it can spread to other areas and can even be fatal.

The Express article was entitled:

“How to spot the difference between age spots and skin cancer – expert on warning signs”

Dr Ross Perry told The Express:

“Age spots and skin cancer can have similarities and if you’re worried, it’s best to get it checked out.”

Age spots vs melanoma – key differences

Age spots usually appear as small, flat, brown or black patches
Age spots usually appear on areas that get higher levels of sun exposure e.g. face, hands, shoulders and arms.
Age spots are usually uniform in colour and have well-defined edges
Age spots may increase in number and become slightly darker, but they typically remain unchanged
Age spots are usually fat and smooth, while skin cancer can be rough or bumpy
Age spots do not cause discomfort, itching or other sensations

Dr Perry told The Express:

“Skin cancer will often have a jagged border and is more than one colour, whereas an age spot should look more like a freckle.”

“Melanoma can grow very quickly and can be life-threatening in as little as six weeks.

“You can get a new mole at any time, or a change to an existing mole, which is when you do need to get it checked out.”

Ross concluded:

“If you find a lesion on your body, it’s best to visit your GP or dermatologist immediately. They will be able to identify whether there is cause for concern.”

Read this article in full

Dr Ross Perry

Dr Ross Perry often assists the media with his explanations and information. He has extensive experience as an NHS GP and skin cancer reconstruction doctor alongside his private work as Founder and Medical Director of the London Mole Removal Centre.

He is renowned as an expert in removal of skin lesions. He has removed thousands of moles in his role as Medical Director and founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics including the London mole Removal Centre.

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.