The alphabet mole check guide everyone needs to know

Colour
Is the colour uneven, patchy or is the mole showing different shades? For example you may see different shades of black, brown and pink.

Diameter
Is the lesion more than 5mm in diameter? Or has it changed size or become raised?

Evolution
Has your mole changed in any way? Has it for example changed in size, in shape or in colour? Or has it become itchy, is bleeding or oozing?
Also look out for other skin lesions that appeared and won’t go away (does that scaly patch or scab refuse to heal?).

If in doubt, check it out! If any of the signs above is positive, make an appointment with your dermatologist as soon as possible to have it checked.

What the dermatologist will do

As Dr Williams explains: "The dermatologist will examine the mole with a special magnifying lamp called dermatoscope. With this tool, we can see the mole’s pigment structure in great detail, which provides us with information as to whether the mole is harmless or may have to come out. But even if it has to come out, don’t panic. The procedure is very straightforward and completely painless after numbing the skin."

How to stay safe in the sun

1. Avoid sun exposure during the middle of the day, when UV radiation levels are at their highest. If you are outdoors during these times, stay in the shade.
2. Cover up with clothing (ideally long sleeved shirts and trousers) and don’t forget to wear a wide rimmed hat. Sunglasses provide good protection for the delicate skin around the eyes.
3. Although the first two tips are most imperative, it is also important to apply sunscreen. Make sure it has an SPF (i.e. UVB protection factor) of 30-50. The UVA circle logo or a 5-star UVA rating gives an indication about UVA protection.