Close-up of freckled skin with visible sun spots, emphasising cumulative sun damage and the need for regular skin checks at Apex Skin Clinic Berkshire Grove Hospital.

Digital Mole Mapping and Skin Surveillance

Advanced digital mole tracking for early melanoma detection and peace of mind.

Close-up of a woman's face showing sun-damaged skin and freckles, highlighting the importance of sun protection and early skin cancer detection at Apex Skin Clinic Berkshire Grove Hospital.

What is Mole Mapping?

Commonly referred to as: digital mole mapping, total body mole scan, mole tracking, full body mole photography, digital skin monitoring.

Mole mapping is a digital skin surveillance technique that uses high-resolution photography and dermoscopic imaging to record and monitor moles over time. It enables skin cancer specialists to detect subtle changes in a mole or lesion, even before they become clinically visible. This makes it a key tool in identifying early signs of skin cancers, including melanoma.

At Apex Skin Clinic, mole mapping is offered exclusively at Berkshire Grove Hospital. This service is delivered by expert skin cancer specialist nurses with specialist skin cancer consultant plastic surgeons and consultant dermatologists with specialist experience in mole checking, skin cancer treatment, melanoma surveillance, and digital imaging analysis. If you’re wondering what is mole mapping, it’s the most advanced way to track changes in your skin and minimise the risk of developing skin cancer.

What Are The Benefits Of Mole Mapping?

Mole mapping offers several advantages for individuals concerned about their skin:

It creates a digital archive of your mole pattern, allowing consultants to identify subtle changes that may be early indicators of skin cancers. This method helps reduce unnecessary removal of stable moles and supports targeted action when real changes occur. It’s particularly valuable for those with a history of skin cancer, giving you peace of mind and a clear follow-up plan led by your consultant dermatologist.

All sessions are delivered by consultants — not technicians — ensuring clinical oversight and decision-making every step of the way.

  • Avoid makeup, fake tan, and heavy creams on the day of your appointment, as these may affect image quality. Wear loose-fitting clothing and be prepared to undress to your underwear. A chaperone will be available on request.

  • The session typically takes 30–45 minutes, depending on the number of moles. Your skin will be examined from head to toe. Photographs and dermoscopic images are taken of key moles or lesions. This process is safe, painless, and non-invasive.

  • You will receive a summary of findings, including guidance on:

    • Sun protection and UV safety

    • Self-monitoring techniques for mole checking at home

    • A personalised follow-up plan based on your risk of developing skin cancer

    If a mole appears suspicious in future, our consultants will compare the current image with your earlier records — allowing for early intervention when needed.

Close-up of freckles across a woman’s shoulder and neck, illustrating sun-related pigmentation and the importance of regular skin monitoring at Apex Skin Clinic Berkshire Grove Hospital.

Who Should Consider Mole Mapping?

Mole mapping is particularly beneficial for individuals who are at higher risk of developing skin cancers.

If you have a large number of moles, especially more than 50, tracking them digitally helps monitor for subtle changes that may indicate a sign of skin cancer. This is especially important if your moles are atypical in shape, colour, or size.

Patients with a family history of skin cancer, including melanoma, are also advised to have regular mole mapping appointments. This helps detect early-stage abnormalities before they progress. If you've previously had a mole removed or a diagnosis of skin cancer, mole mapping provides a way to monitor remaining lesions and reduce the risk of recurrence.

People with fair skin, red or blonde hair, or a tendency to burn easily are more sensitive to UV damage and should consider mole mapping as a preventive measure. You may also benefit from mole mapping if you notice a suspicious mole, changes in existing moles, or simply want a reliable digital record for future comparisons. If you have lived in hot and sunny climate and have had significant UV exposure either from the sun or have used sunbeds. This service is ideal for those who wish to take a proactive, preventative approach to skin health, and gain peace of mind.

How Mole Mapping Works

Our mole mapping appointments follow a highly structured process carried out by skin cancer specialist nurses with specialist skin cancer consultant plastic surgeons and consultant dermatologists.

We begin by capturing full body photography to create a detailed visual map of your mole distribution. These images provide a baseline to detect any changes during follow-up visits.

Next, high-resolution dermoscopic images are taken of specific moles or lesions that are of interest — particularly those that are atypical or located in high-risk areas.

All images are stored securely in your confidential dermatology file, allowing your consultant dermatologist to track your moles over time. At follow-up visits, any changes in size, shape, colour, or internal structure are reviewed in detail.

If a suspicious mole is identified, your dermatologist may recommend a biopsy or surgical removal. These decisions are based on expert analysis and follow strict clinical guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • It detects suspicious moles and early changes, allowing for timely biopsy and treatment when necessary.

  • Yes — mole mapping is non-invasive, painless, and does not use radiation or dyes.

  • Yes — we can provide documentation for patients wishing to claim their mole mapping appointment via private health insurance.

  • No — mole mapping includes high-resolution digital imaging and structured follow-up. A standard mole check is a one-time, visual examination only.

  • Most higher risk patients repeat mapping annually. Your consultant dermatologist will recommend a timeline based on your skin type and family history of skin cancer.

Find Mole Mapping Near You

If you're looking for mole mapping near me, Apex Skin Clinic offers consultant-led care in our private dermatology unit at Berkshire Grove Hospital, Maidenhead. Our service is an excellent alternative to central Harley Street clinics for those in Berkshire, London, or across the UK.

Whether you're monitoring a large number of moles, managing a suspicious mole, or have a family history of skin cancer, our personalised care pathway is designed to support your long-term skin health.

Mole Mapping at Berkshire Grove Hospital – Maidenhead, Windsor, Eton and Beyond

Apex Skin Clinic offers exclusive mole mapping delivered by skin cancer specialist nurses with specialist skin cancer consultant plastic surgeons and dermatologists at our private dermatology unit in Berkshire Grove Hospital, Maidenhead.

We care for patients across Windsor, Eton, Marlow, Slough, Ascot, and throughout Berkshire, London, and Surrey, helping individuals monitor moles over time and reduce their risk of developing skin cancer.