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At the Apul Parikh Clinic in London, we frequently see patients concerned about skin lesions, and for good reason. While most of these growths are benign and harmless, it’s important to be vigilant and know when to seek advice.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential things you need to know about skin lesions—what they are, the signs to look for, and the treatment options available.
If you would like to book a treatment for skin lesions with our experienced skincare professionals, contact our team to book a consultation.
Most people have moles or skin lesions at some point in their lives. These growths can appear at any time, and genetics play a role—if your parents or siblings have a lot of moles or skin tags, you may too. While the appearance of these lesions is common, it’s crucial to keep an eye on them. Changes in their appearance could signal that something more serious is going on. Skin surveillance, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or skin disorders, is key to maintaining skin health.
There are many types of skin lesions, and the good news is that most are entirely benign. Some of the common harmless lesions include:
Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can appear under the skin.
Lipomas: Small pockets of fat beneath the skin that feel soft to the touch.
Skin Tags: Small, soft growths that tend to form in areas of friction like the neck or armpits.
Seborrhoeic Keratoses: Waxy, wart-like growths that typically appear with age.
While these types of lesions are non-threatening, it’s always a good idea to have any new growths examined by a professional for peace of mind.
Unfortunately, not all skin lesions are benign. Some lesions can be malignant, and it’s important to differentiate between harmless and potentially dangerous growths. The most common types of skin cancers include:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least dangerous form of skin cancer, typically appearing as a raised bump or sore that doesn’t heal.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This cancer often looks like a scaly patch or wart-like growth and can spread if left untreated.
Melanoma: The most serious type of skin cancer, melanoma often looks like a new or changing mole. Early detection is critical because melanoma can spread to other parts of the body quickly.
If you notice any changes in a skin lesion, it’s crucial to get it checked as soon as possible. At Apul Parikh Clinic, we take a proactive approach, ensuring any suspicious lesions are assessed and treated promptly.
A useful tool for assessing moles and skin lesions is the ABCDE mnemonic. It helps you understand when a lesion might be worth checking out by a professional. The ABCDE rule is an easy way to monitor your skin at home, but it’s not a substitute for expert advice. If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to book an appointment with a skin specialist.
Here’s how it works:
Does one half of the lesion look different from the other? A benign mole is often symmetrical, while cancerous lesions are not.
Are the edges smooth, or are they irregular and poorly defined? A lesion with jagged or blurred borders may be a cause for concern.
Is the lesion uniformly coloured, or has it changed over time? Lesions with multiple colours (brown, black, red, etc.) are more likely to be dangerous.
If a lesion is larger than 5mm, it’s worth having it checked, although some dangerous lesions can be smaller.
Has the lesion changed in size, shape, or colour? Is it itching, bleeding, or becoming more prominent? Any of these changes warrant a professional assessment.
If there’s one thing to remember about skin lesions, it’s this: if in doubt, get it checked out! Early diagnosis is critical for preventing potential problems down the line. Malignant lesions, especially melanomas, can be life-threatening if not treated early. Even benign lesions, if left untreated, can cause discomfort or become more complicated to remove over time.
At the Apul Parikh Clinic, we offer several advanced options for removing unwanted skin lesions, whether they are benign or require further investigation:
Using diathermy, we can cauterise (burn) the lesion to remove it safely and effectively.
This treatment involves freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off after a few days. You can read more about this type of lesion removal in our Ultimate Guide to Cryotherapy.
For larger or more complex lesions, we can surgically excise them under local anaesthesia. We work closely with a laboratory to ensure a proper histological diagnosis after removal, giving you complete peace of mind.
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No matter the type of lesion, it’s essential to address any concerns early. Our expert team is here to guide you through the process, offering tailored advice and treatment options based on your needs.
Skin lesions are a common occurrence, but understanding when to act is crucial. While most lesions are harmless, being proactive about changes can prevent more serious health concerns. The team at Apul Parikh Clinic is dedicated to providing expert care, from assessment to treatment, ensuring your skin remains healthy and free from worry.
If you are interested in booking a treatment for yourself, Dr Apul Parikh has vast experience performing Minor Surgery and Cryotherapy Treatments for patients for over 16 years. Regarded as a specialist for various aesthetic and medical skin treatments, you can have peace of mind that your skin lesions are being handled by a highly experienced and world-renowned medical practitioner.
Contact Dr Apul Parikh to book a consultation with a medical aesthetic skin specialist and discuss your desired goals in detail.
Monday - Friday
10:00am – 18:00pm
Weekends
10 mins via District & Circle Line from South Kensington to London Victoria.
8 mins via District & Circle Line from St James Park to London Victoria.
17 mins via Victoria Line from Oxford Circus to London Victoria.
8 mins via Victoria Line from Green Park to London Victoria.
22 mins via Bakerloo & District Line from Lambeth North to London Victoria.
10 min walk from Sloane Square Station
10 min walk from Knightsbridge Station
5 min walk from Victoria Station
3 mins via Victoria Line from Vauxhall to London Victoria.
Dr Apul Parikh Clinic,
7 Grosvenor Gardens,
Victoria
London
SW1W 0BD
