Worried About a Mole? UK Online Doctor Skin Check Guide
Educational information — not medical advice.
This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.
Key points
- Most moles are harmless, but changes can signal melanoma — early treatment saves lives.
- Use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, Evolving.
- Any mole that is changing, bleeding, itching or new in adulthood deserves review.
- An online GP can assess by photo/video and refer urgently to dermatology.
- Use SPF 50, avoid sunbeds, and check your skin monthly.
ABCDE rule
- Asymmetry — one half doesn't match the other.
- Border — irregular, blurred or notched edges.
- Colour — varied shades, multiple colours.
- Diameter — usually >6 mm but smaller cancers exist.
- Evolving — changing in size, shape, colour or behaviour.
Other concerning features
- Bleeding, crusting or oozing.
- Itching or pain.
- A new mole appearing in adulthood.
- The 'ugly duckling' — one mole that looks different from the rest.
What an online doctor can do
An online GP can review high-quality photos and live video of your mole, advise whether referral is needed, and issue a private referral to a consultant dermatologist. Where melanoma is suspected, the NHS 2-week wait pathway is the route — your private GP can advise how best to access this quickly.
Red flags — when to seek urgent help
Call 999 or go to A&E if you experience any of the following:
- Rapidly changing mole
- Bleeding or ulcerating lesion
- New lump in someone over 40
- Darkening line under nail (subungual melanoma)
Frequently asked questions
Common questions UK patients ask about moles and skin lesions.
How an online doctor can help
Related articles
Acne in Adults & Teens: UK Online Doctor Treatment Guide
Spots, blackheads or cystic acne? Learn UK treatment options including topical retinoids, antibiotics and isotretinoin pathways via an online doctor.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): UK Online Doctor Treatment Guide
Itchy, dry, inflamed skin? Learn how UK GPs treat eczema with emollients, steroid creams and stronger options, and how to see an online doctor.
Psoriasis: Symptoms, Treatments & UK Online Doctor
Scaly red patches that won't go away? Learn UK psoriasis treatment options from topical therapy to biologics, and how to see an online doctor.
This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.
See a UK GP about this today
Same-day video or phone consultations with GMC-registered GPs. Prescriptions, sick notes and referrals when clinically appropriate.