Moles in the sun? Add a ‘pat on the back’ to your travel checklist

“Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in skin cells – that’s why it’s important to use a high quality, broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB rays,” Dr Tim says. Moles are particularly sensitive to UV radiation. 

“Before you head off to join the sun, take a moment for a mole inspection.” 

Sophie Simons, Head of Marketing at Pall Mall Medical, explains: “A 2025 survey found that Brits spend an average of 7 hours preparing for abroad travel, including arranging plant care. We want to encourage Brits to incorporate a mole check into their pre-travel rituals. Between partners, friends and families, it only needs to take a few minutes.”

Moles are usually small, evenly coloured, clearly defined circles. Unlike freckles, which are always brown and fade in winter, moles can be brown, black, pink, or even blue or grey. Some moles are the same colour as the surrounding skin.

Or if you have many moles, you may find it easier to use the ‘ugly duckling’ method. This is a mole that looks different and stands out compared with the rest of your skin pattern.

Moles can grow anywhere and can crop up well into your 40s and beyond – so they’re easy to miss. 

To do a mole inspection, you can use the ABCDE signs:

A – Asymmetry: one half unlike the other

B – Border: irregular or blurred edges 

C – Colour: uneven shades or darkening 

D – Diameter: larger than ~6mm or growing 

E – Evolving: rapid changes in size, shape, colour, or symptoms like itching or weeping 

“You also need to look for new moles. In most cases, melanomas appear as a new mark or lesion,” Dr Tim explains. He emphasises that moles can develop in unexpected areas, so being thorough is vital.

If you find a concerning mole, the best thing to do is visit a dermatologist. And if you’re just about to jet off?  “Keeping your moles covered is the best way to minimise UV exposure and lower the risk of moles changing from strong sunlight,” the consultant dermatologist advises.

People with many moles are at higher risk from sunburn and prolonged UV exposure. There’s a strong link between sun exposure and mole development, and physical protection (clothing or shade) is often more reliable than sunscreen alone.

If you needed another excuse to expand your holiday wardrobe, be sure to include lightweight, long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat that offers protection to your neck and face. Oh, and UV protecting sunglasses, too!