Your skin health, beyond the clinic

Will I have a scar? 

Any surgical incision leaves some degree of scarring, a natural part of healing. Most scars from skin lesion removal are small and fade significantly over 12–18 months. Your surgeon will have placed sutures carefully to minimise the final result, and body location makes a difference too. If you have concerns, don't hesitate to contact your clinical team.

How can I help my scar heal well? 

Once the wound has fully closed, silicone gel or sheets can help flatten and soften the scar. Keeping it out of the sun and using SPF 50+ is one of the most effective steps you can take, as UV exposure can permanently darken a healing scar. Gentle massage (once your surgeon gives the go-ahead) can also improve texture over time.

What about keloid scarring? 

Some people are prone to keloid scars, where scar tissue grows beyond the original wound boundary. If you've had keloid treatment with UKSKIN®, your aftercare plan will be tailored to reduce this risk. Watch for a scar that continues to grow, feels raised and firm, or becomes itchy or uncomfortable. Let your team know promptly if this happens.

How should I monitor my moles going forward? 

A monthly self-check in good light is the best habit. Use a mirror for hard-to-see areas, or ask someone to help with your back. Get to know what your moles normally look like so changes stand out. Consistent photography of the same moles over time makes it much easier to spot differences.

What changes should prompt me to seek advice? 

Use the ABCDE guide: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolution. Also watch for new moles appearing in adulthood, any mole that bleeds, itches or crusts without injury, or anything that simply feels different. All are worth getting checked.

How often should I have a professional skin check? 

Anyone with a history of skin lesions, significant sun exposure, or a family history of skin cancer should consider a professional check at least once a year. See your GP if unsure, and specialist clinics like UKSKIN® are there for anything needing a closer look.

For every skin lesion treated across UKSKIN® clinics, whether a mole, cyst, lipoma or skin cancer, a donation is made to the British Skin Foundation. Those contributions have already surpassed £7,500 and grow each quarter, funding research that improves outcomes for the millions living with skin conditions across the UK.

The British Skin Foundation is the UK's leading charity dedicated to skin disease research, supporting scientists and clinicians working to better understand, treat and prevent conditions that affect one in four people in this country. For UKSKIN®, great care doesn't end when a patient leaves the clinic. It extends to supporting the wider future of skin health for everyone.