6th June 2017

Legions Of Lesions: Know Your Mole

Skin lesions are extremely common, but with so many different types it can be hard to differentiate between them. In most cases, skin lesions, including freckles, moles and skin tags, are completely harmless and benign, meaning that they are non-cancerous. However, it is wise to keep an eye on them and to know the difference as changes in your skin can be early signs of an underlying problem.

Moles are dark skin growths that can appear anywhere on your body. They can lay flat against the skin or appear raised, as opposed to freckles that are usually flat to the surface. Freckles usually form around the face, neck, arms and chest, and are also lighter in colour. They are usually a light brown colour in contrast to darker browns and blacks that moles consist of.

Skin tags are different entirely. They are usually formed in areas where movement is restricted or clothing is tight, such as the eyelids, neck, underarms and groin. They are small bits of skin that protrude from the surrounding area.

How do you know if your mole is harmless?

When it comes to moles, there are many types as their size, colour and shape can widely vary. Moles that are clearly present at birth are known as Congenital Nevi and possess a greater chance of developing into Melanoma (cancer) than moles that form after birth.

You should have all freckles and moles checked that are larger than average. The average mole size is often compared to a pencil erase. Dysplastic Nevi is the name given to moles that are larger than average and irregular in shape. Their colouring is usually uneven, with darker centres and lighter, uneven edges.

In general, if a mole is no bigger than the width of a pencil eraser and has a regular shape and colour, it should be harmless. But you should schedule skin health checks with a reputable dermatologist, just like Dr Firas Al-Niaimi, to be on the safe side.

Skin lesion specialist in Harley Street, London

Dr Firas is a leading cosmetic and medical dermatologist with a wealth of expertise and experience. Based on the infamous Harley Street in London, he regularly performs skin health checks and routine mole removal treatments. This could involve one of a number of mole removal methods that is best suited to you, depending on the type of mole you have.

A thorough consultation process is undertaken to ensure your mole isn’t benign before it is then treated under local anaesthetic. Smaller moles usually require either laser removal or a mole shaving/scraping, while larger moles can require excision and reconstruction.

Dr Firas would love to hear from you, so be sure to get in touch if you have any questions or to book your consultation.