Skin cancer awareness and sun safety

Types of skin cancer

Skin cancers fall into two broad groups. The most common are non-melanoma skin cancers, mainly basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. These usually appear on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, and hands as a persistent lump, scaly patch, or sore that does not heal. They grow slowly, rarely spread, and are very treatable, though they should still be checked promptly. The more serious type is melanoma, which develops from the pigment-producing cells of the skin. Melanoma is less common but more dangerous because it can spread to other parts of the body if not caught early. It often appears as a new or changing mole. Understanding this difference helps explain why any changing skin lesion deserves attention.

How the sun causes skin cancer

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is invisible light from the sun, and also from sunbeds, that damages the DNA inside skin cells. There are two main types that reach us: UVA, which penetrates deeply and contributes to ageing and cancer, and UVB, which causes sunburn. Over years, repeated UV damage builds up and can cause the mistakes in DNA that lead cells to grow out of control. Sunburn, especially in childhood, and the use of sunbeds both significantly raise the risk. People with pale skin that burns easily, lots of moles, red or fair hair, or a family history of skin cancer are more susceptible — but UV damage can affect anyone, including people with darker skin, so no one is completely immune.

Knowing the warning signs

Catching skin cancer early makes it far easier to treat, so it helps to know what to look for. For moles, doctors use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry (one half unlike the other), Border that is irregular or blurred, Colour that is uneven or has several shades, Diameter larger than about 6mm, and Evolving — any change in size, shape, colour, or a mole that itches, bleeds, or crusts. For non-melanoma cancers, watch for a new lump or patch that grows, a sore that will not heal within a few weeks, or a scaly red area. Get to know your own skin, including areas like the back and scalp, using a mirror or asking someone to help you check.

Everyday sun safety

Protecting your skin is straightforward and does not mean avoiding the outdoors. In the UK, the sun is strongest between around 11am and 3pm from late March to September, so seek shade during these hours where you can. Cover up with clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Use sunscreen of at least SPF 30 with good UVA protection, applied generously and reapplied regularly, especially after swimming or sweating — remember it is a top-up to shade and clothing, not a substitute. Never use sunbeds, which deliver concentrated UV and clearly increase cancer risk. Take extra care with babies and young children, keeping them out of direct strong sun, as early sunburn is particularly harmful.

Getting checked and vitamin D balance

If you notice a new or changing mole, a sore that will not heal, or any of the ABCDE warning signs, see your GP without delay. Skin changes are usually harmless, but it is always better to have them checked, and the NHS can refer suspicious lesions urgently for specialist assessment. A dermatologist may examine the skin closely, sometimes with a magnifying device, and remove a sample if needed. It is worth knowing that sunlight also helps the body make vitamin D, which is important for bones. The aim is balance: enjoy short periods outdoors while protecting against burning, and if you are concerned about vitamin D, discuss supplements with your GP rather than deliberately overexposing your skin.