Dr Ross Perry, founder and Medical Director of Cosmedics Skin Clinics, was asked to assist New Magazine in their latest health feature

‘Give your body a health MOT!’

The article suggested a series of simple, regular, DIY health checks that readers could carry out for themselves. Other areas included were eyes, breasts, mouth, brain, bowels, legs and vagina; with the suggestion: “We get our cars checked every year, so why not our bodies too?”

When it comes to the skin, the article explained the reason for this important aspect of a ‘health MOT’:

“Malignant melanoma is the 5th most common cancer in the UK. Sun exposure poses a big risk to our skin, even if you’re using sun protection. Checking your skin, particularly for moles, dark spots or sores, is the safest course of action.”

Dr Ross Perry suggested that a skin check should be carried out to look for suspicious changes or worrying signs. He said:

“Look out for a mole or growth which is new, or an existing one that has changed in size, shape, feel or colour.

“Stand naked in front of a full-length mirror, bend your elbows and examine your forearms and the backs and palms of your hands. Grab a hand mirror to check the back of your legs, bottom of your feet and back of the neck. It’s also worth checking under your hairline or easier still, ask someone else to.”

In case of a worrying mole or unusual spot, Dr Perry’s advice is to simply get it checked out. Book and see a GP as soon as possible. They will hopefully put your mind at rest but if there is any concern, they’ll arrange a referral to an expert.

Mole Doctors

Those who’d prefer to be seen by a doctor might wish to book a full full body mole check. This costs £190 at Cosmedics Skin Clinics and will take an inventory of your moles, logging the information for future comparison.

If it’s just a specific mole or group of moles you’d like to check, then a standard consultation is £50, which is discounted off the cost of any mole removal treatment carried out same day.

Dr Ross Perry

Dr Ross Perry regularly provides expert comment and advises the media on a range of skincare and health-related issues.

He has particular expertise in skin surgery mole removal and melanoma; having removed thousands of moles in his career, both within the NHS and privately through Cosmedics Skin Clinics. He provides expert advice on skin cancer, sun damage and sun protection for a variety of UK media and publications.

DR ROSS PERRY

Cosmedics Skin Clinics

Cosmedics Skin Clinics was established in 2003 and has built up an excellent reputation for cosmetic and medical treatments, carried out by GMC Registered Doctors.  The company offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, including popular lip enhancement and wrinkle relaxing injections, dermal fillers; plus medical treatments including mole removal, thread vein treatment and excessive sweating injections.

Cosmedics Skin Clinics has a team of skin treatment doctors and surgeons in their 5 skin clinics across London and Bristol led by Dr Ross Perry.

Call 020 7386 0464 or email enquiries@cosmedics.co.uk to book an appointment.