Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United Kingdom, with over 150,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The majority of skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or sunbeds, making it one of the most preventable forms of cancer.
As spring arrives and the days grow longer, many of us spend more time outdoors without thinking about sun protection. However, UV rays can cause damage to your skin even on cloudy or overcast days, and the risk of sunburn increases significantly from April onwards. Understanding how to protect your skin and recognise the early warning signs of skin cancer can make a life-saving difference. Your local Allied Pharmacy can help you choose the right sun protection products and provide advice on keeping your skin healthy all year round.
Skin cancer develops when skin cells are damaged, usually by UV radiation, causing them to grow abnormally and form tumours. There are two main types of skin cancer: non-melanoma skin cancer, which includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, which is less common but more serious as it can spread to other parts of the body.
While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors increase your risk. People with fair skin, light-coloured hair, and blue or green eyes are more susceptible to UV damage. Having a large number of moles or freckles, a history of sunburn (particularly in childhood), or a family history of skin cancer also raises your risk. People who use sunbeds or spend a lot of time working or exercising outdoors are at increased risk, as are those with weakened immune systems.
It is important to remember that skin cancer does not only affect people who sunbathe regularly. Everyday exposure to UV radiation, such as walking to work, gardening, or spending time in the park with children, can contribute to cumulative skin damage over time.
Choosing the right sunscreen is essential for effective sun protection. The NHS recommends using a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, which blocks about 97 per cent of UVB rays. You should also look for a product with a high UVA star rating of four or five stars, as UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to ageing and cancer risk.
When applying sunscreen, most people do not use enough. Adults should aim to apply approximately two teaspoons of sunscreen for the head, arms, and neck, and two tablespoons for the whole body when wearing a swimsuit. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outside to allow it to absorb into the skin, and reapply at least every two hours, or more frequently after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
Do not forget commonly missed areas such as the ears, back of the neck, tops of the feet, and the scalp if hair is thinning. Lip balm with SPF protection is also recommended, as lips are particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Remember that no sunscreen provides 100 per cent protection, so it should be used alongside other sun safety measures such as seeking shade during peak hours (11am to 3pm) and wearing protective clothing and sunglasses.
Early detection of skin cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. Get into the habit of checking your skin regularly, ideally once a month, and be aware of any changes to existing moles or the appearance of new growths.
The ABCDE rule is a helpful guide for identifying suspicious moles. A stands for Asymmetry, where one half of the mole does not match the other. B stands for Border, where the edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred. C stands for Colour, where the mole has uneven shading or multiple colours such as brown, black, red, or white. D stands for Diameter, where the mole is larger than 6 millimetres across, roughly the size of a pencil eraser. E stands for Evolving, where the mole is changing in size, shape, or colour over time.
Other warning signs to watch for include a sore that does not heal within four weeks, a spot or sore that itches, hurts, bleeds, or crusts over, and any new lump or growth on the skin that is growing in size. Non-melanoma skin cancers often appear as a firm red lump or a flat, scaly patch that does not go away.
If you notice any of these changes, do not wait. See your GP as soon as possible. Early-stage skin cancer is highly treatable, with a survival rate of over 90 per cent when caught early.
Children's skin is particularly delicate and more vulnerable to sun damage than adult skin. Research shows that experiencing sunburn in childhood or adolescence significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life, making sun protection for young ones especially important.
Babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight altogether. Their skin is too sensitive for most sunscreens, so shade, lightweight clothing, and wide-brimmed hats are the best forms of protection. For older children, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 generously and frequently, and choose formulations designed for sensitive skin if needed.
Encourage children to wear hats with wide brims, UV-protective sunglasses, and loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs when playing outside. Try to plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon, avoiding the midday sun when UV rays are strongest. Schools and nurseries should also be encouraged to provide shaded play areas and allow children to wear hats during outdoor time.
Teaching children about sun safety from a young age helps build habits that will protect them throughout their lives. Your pharmacist can recommend child-friendly sunscreens and after-sun products that are gentle on young skin.
Your local Allied Pharmacy is your first port of call for sun protection advice and products. Our pharmacists can help you choose the right sunscreen for your skin type, whether you need a product for sensitive skin, a water-resistant formula for swimming, or a lightweight option for everyday use under makeup.
We stock a wide range of sun protection products, including sunscreens for adults and children, after-sun lotions to soothe and hydrate skin after sun exposure, and lip balms with SPF protection. If you have experienced sunburn, your pharmacist can recommend treatments to ease discomfort, such as cooling gels and moisturisers containing aloe vera.
If you are concerned about a mole or skin change, your pharmacist can offer initial advice and guide you on whether you should see your GP for further investigation. We are also happy to provide tips on sun safety for holidays, outdoor events, and everyday activities.
Visit your nearest Allied Pharmacy this spring to stock up on sun protection essentials and get personalised advice on keeping your skin safe. Prevention is always better than cure, and a few simple steps can significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer.