UV Index
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UV checker from SunSmart NZ - Sun protection alert
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Sunscreen
Consumer New Zealand have a page devoted to sunscreen.
This includes a comprehensive sunscreen guide, and a testing database with reviews
This includes a comprehensive sunscreen guide, and a testing database with reviews
Melanoma
Melanoma NZ
- Guide on how to self-check for skin cancer
-Support services including free counselling for anyone affected by Melanoma
Melanoma Australia
- a great resource on how to prevent Melanoma
- Guide on how to self-check for skin cancer
-Support services including free counselling for anyone affected by Melanoma
Melanoma Australia
- a great resource on how to prevent Melanoma
Dermatology
DermNetNZ is a fantastic world class education resource covering a comprehensive array of skin topics including Skin Cancer, Rashes and general dermatology topics such as Acne and Rosacea
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No. You can book directly with us and do not need a referral. We are happy to see patients who self-refer, as well as those referred by their GP or other healthcare providers.
What happens during a skin check?
A full skin check is a thorough head-to-toe examination of your skin. We use a dermatoscope, a specialised magnifying device that helps us assess moles and skin lesions in much greater detail than the naked eye can see. Digital images may also be taken when appropriate for monitoring over time.
How often should I have a skin check?
- This depends on your personal risk factors. Some people only need occasional checks, while others benefit from yearly or more frequent surveillance. During your appointment, we will discuss your individual risk and recommend a monitoring schedule that is right for you.
What is a spot check?
- A spot check is a shorter appointment focused on one or more specific skin lesions that concern you. It is ideal if you have noticed a new spot, a changing mole, or a lesion that won't heal. If you have multiple concerns or are due for routine surveillance, a full skin check is usually the better option.
What are the warning signs of skin cancer?
We recommend getting a spot checked if it is:
- New
- Changing in size, shape, or colour
- Bleeding or crusting
- Itchy or painful
- Not healing after several weeks
Can you remove skin cancers?
Yes. We diagnose and treat many skin cancers here in our clinic. Depending on the type, size, and location of the lesion, treatment may include surgical removal, biopsy, cryotherapy, or referral for specialist treatment if needed.
What if I need a biopsy?
If we find a lesion that needs further assessment, we can often perform a biopsy here at the clinic. The sample is sent to a specialist laboratory, and we will contact you with the results and discuss any further treatment that may be required.
Do you treat melanoma?
We diagnose and manage many melanomas and work closely with pathology and specialist colleagues when additional treatment or multidisciplinary care is required. Early detection remains the most important factor in achieving the best outcomes.
What should I wear to a full skin check?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing that is easy to remove and avoiding all makeup, nail polish, or heavy fake tan if possible. This helps us examine your skin more thoroughly.
How long does an appointment take?
Full skin check appointments are 30 minutes. More complex consultations may require longer appointments. Skin spot checks for up to 3 spots are 15 minutes.
Will my appointment be covered by insurance?
Many health insurance providers offer cover for skin cancer consultations and procedures, depending on your policy. We recommend checking directly with your insurer before your appointment.
Can children have skin checks?
Yes. We are happy to assess children with concerning moles, skin lesions, or a strong family history of melanoma. We can advise whether ongoing monitoring is needed.
Are you dermatologists?
No. We are not dermatologists. We are general practitioners (GPs) with special interest in skin cancer and we have advanced training and qualifications in skin cancer medicine, dermoscopy, and skin cancer surgery. Skin cancer medicine is the focus of our clinic, and we spend our days diagnosing, treating, and monitoring skin cancers and suspicious skin lesions. Many patients are unsure whether they need to see a dermatologist or a skin cancer doctor. For skin checks, mole assessments, skin cancer diagnosis, biopsies, and most skin cancer treatments, a skin cancer doctor is often the most appropriate first point of contact.
If we believe you would benefit from seeing a dermatologist or another specialist, we will discuss this with you and arrange referral when needed.
If we believe you would benefit from seeing a dermatologist or another specialist, we will discuss this with you and arrange referral when needed.
What can I do to reduce my risk of skin cancer?
We recommend:
- Using SPF 50+ sunscreen daily with reapplication after 2 hours in the sun anytime the UV Index is 3 or higher.
- Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
- Seeking shade during peak UV hours
- Avoiding sunburn
- Performing regular self-skin checks
- Having professional skin checks when recommended
I'm nervous about having a skin check. What can I expect?
Many people feel anxious before their first appointment. We understand that. Our goal is to provide a relaxed, respectful, and thorough consultation. We will explain what we are doing, answer your questions, and make sure you feel comfortable throughout the process.
Why choose Nelson Skin Doctors?
Skin cancer medicine is what we do. We are passionate about early detection, prevention, and treatment of skin cancer. Our goal is to provide expert care in a friendly, supportive environment, helping our patients feel informed and confident about their skin health.