Why You Should Book a Full-Body Mole Check After Summer — A Crucial Step in Skin Health

As the warmth of summer fades and we transition into the cooler months, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how the sun may have affected our skin—especially if you spent long days outdoors, on holidays abroad, or simply enjoyed the sunshine here at home. While sun-kissed skin may look healthy, the reality is that sun exposure remains the number one cause of skin damage and skin cancer—and its effects aren’t always immediately visible.

At Adare Dermatology Chelsea, we encourage all patients, especially those with existing moles or a history of prolonged sun exposure, to book a full-body mole check after summer. This proactive step is not just good skin care—it can be life-saving.

Why a Post-Summer Mole Check Is Essential

1. Cumulative Sun Exposure Can Trigger Skin Changes

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are a known carcinogen. While your skin may appear fine superficially, the damage happens deep within. UV radiation can alter DNA in skin cells, potentially triggering abnormal cell growth or the transformation of a benign mole into something more concerning.

During the summer, we often expose more skin than usual—shoulders, legs, arms, backs—and may overlook applying sunscreen consistently. Even with diligent SPF use, cumulative exposure over the years can still take its toll, especially in vulnerable individuals.

A full-body mole check post-summer allows dermatologists to:

• Detect any new moles that may have appeared
• Monitor changes in existing moles
• Identify early signs of melanoma and other skin cancers
• Recommend further investigation or removal of suspicious lesions

2. Existing Moles Require Ongoing Monitoring

If you already have moles—especially multiple or atypical (dysplastic) ones—you’re at a higher risk of developing melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.

Moles can change in size, shape, colour, or texture over time, often subtly and painlessly. These changes can easily go unnoticed by the untrained eye, particularly in hard-to-see areas like your back, scalp, or behind the knees.

Our doctors are trained to spot the early warning signs of skin cancer, often before patients themselves notice a change. A full-body mole check ensures your moles are professionally assessed making future comparisons far more accurate.

3. Summer Holidays May Mean Higher UV Exposure

If your summer included time abroad in sunny destinations—or even a staycation during a UK heatwave—you were likely exposed to stronger UV rays, often for prolonged periods. Activities like swimming, hiking, or relaxing by the pool can increase your sun exposure, especially if you:

• Forgot to reapply sunscreen after swimming
• Missed areas like your ears, scalp, or tops of feet
• Used inadequate SPF or expired products
• Wore minimal protective clothing

All of these increase your risk of skin damage, making a post-summer checkup even more important.

What Happens During a Full-Body Mole Check?

At Adare Dermatology Chelsea, a full-body mole check is a thorough, non-invasive examination of your skin from head to toe. It typically involves:

• Visual examination of all skin surfaces, including the scalp, soles of the feet, and behind the ears
• Dermatoscopic analysis of individual moles using a magnifying device to examine pigment patterns and blood vessels
• Digital mole screening, which takes high-resolution images of moles to track changes over time
• Immediate recommendations for biopsy, removal, or monitoring, if needed

The entire process is usually completed within 30-45 minutes, and your doctor will talk you through their findings in detail.

Warning Signs to Look For

While professional assessments are essential, it’s also wise to be aware of the ABCDEs of melanoma:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other
• B – Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred
• C – Colour: Colour is not uniform; may include black, brown, pink, or even white
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
• E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, colour, or sensation

If you notice any changes in your moles, don’t wait—schedule a consultation immediately.

Who Should Book a Post-Summer Mole Check?

While anyone can benefit from a skin check, the following individuals are especially encouraged to book an appointment:

• Those with multiple or atypical moles
• Anyone with a personal or family history of skin cancer
• People who have had significant sun exposure over the summer
• Individuals with fair skin, freckles, or light hair
• Those who use sunbeds or tanning lamps
• Anyone who notices a new or changing mole

Prevention is Powerful—but Early Detection is Key

Sun protection will always be your first line of defence—broad-spectrum SPF, protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and seeking shade—but no method is 100% foolproof. That’s why regular skin checks, especially following high-UV seasons like summer, are such a vital part of your overall skin health strategy.

Early detection of melanoma offers a survival rate of over 90%—but once it progresses, it becomes much more difficult to treat. With a simple full-body mole check, we can catch problems early and give you peace of mind.

Why Choose Adare Dermatology Chelsea?

At Adare Dermatology Chelsea, our team of highly experienced doctors are dedicated to your skin health. We offer:

• Expert diagnosis using the latest dermoscopy and imaging technology
• A calm, private clinical environment in the heart of beautiful Chelsea
• Same-day consultations and treatment plans
• Transparent, professional advice with no unnecessary procedures

Whether it’s your first mole check or part of a long-term skin monitoring plan, we’re here to ensure your skin gets the attention it deserves.

Book Your Post-Summer Mole Check Today

As we head into autumn, now is the ideal time to book your full-body mole check. It’s a small appointment that could make a very big difference.

Contact Adare Dermatology Chelsea today to schedule your consultation with one of our expert doctors. www.adaredermatology.co.uk