Full skin check

A full skin check is a comprehensive head to toe assessment of your skin, moles and other lesions. It is designed to detect early signs of sun damage, pre cancerous changes and skin cancers, as well as to provide reassurance where lesions are benign.

Who benefits from a full skin check

A full skin check is particularly useful if you:

• Have many moles or atypical or changing moles
• Have a history of sunburn or long term sun exposure
• Have been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma in the past
• Have a family history of melanoma or multiple skin cancers
• Are concerned about specific lesions on sun exposed areas

What happens during the appointment

During a full skin check, the dermatologist will:

• Take a detailed history of your skin concerns, sun exposure and medical background
• Examine your skin from scalp to toes in a systematic way
• Focus on any lesions that concern you
• Use a dermatoscopic examination for selected moles or lesions

You may be asked to remove make up and nail varnish and to change into a gown so that all relevant areas can be properly assessed. Chaperones can be provided if requested.

Outcomes and next steps

At the end of the consultation, you will receive clear explanations about any moles or lesions identified. Possible outcomes include:

• Reassurance that lesions are benign and do not require treatment
• Advice on sun protection and risk reduction
• Planning of long term skin surveillance if you are at higher risk
• Recommendation for skin surgery for suspicious moles or other lesions

If a lesion requires further investigation, a biopsy or excision can be arranged. Early detection allows for more straightforward treatment and better outcomes.

To arrange a full skin check, please contact us via the contact page.