May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and as skin cancer rates continue to rise globally (even in countries known for grey skies, like the UK) there is positive news - a little awareness goes a long way. A few small changes to your personalised skincare habits can make all the difference.
First let’s talk about Melanoma
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer - it originates in pigment-laden cells called melanocytes and often appears as a dark, changing mole. But not all melanomas look the same, and not all skin cancers are melanoma. In fact, the most common types of skin cancer in the UK are called non-melanoma skin cancers and show up as shiny pearly lumps or sore patches of skin that never quite heal. One important myth to bust? Skin cancer affects all skin tones, even those that tan easily and rarely burn. Everyone needs sun protection and regular mole monitoring, without exception.
Checking your moles
New moles are common up until your 30s and can even occur into your 40s, so there is no need to panic if you see something new. But a mole that’s changing (we call this suspicious or evolving) is a red flag. Evolving can mean growing in size, changing in colour (often growing darker), or developing an irregular shape.
Dermatologists recommend you watch out for a mole that looks different from your other moles, the so-called “ugly duckling”. Important errors for a regular skin check include the lower legs for women, and the back and torso for men. Finally, be sure to inspect your feet (they often get overlooked.)
Importantly, bleeding or itching aren’t reliable signs of melanoma, though they can be worth noting. If you're unsure, monitor the mole for about 6–12 weeks. Take photos and compare week on week. If it is evolving, then it’s time to get it checked with a dermatologist.
What happens at a mole check?
A mole check might feel daunting, but dermatologists make it professional and comfortable. They examine your skin from head to toe, looking for irregularities or signs of change. Countries like Australia and Germany recommend annual skin checks, especially if you are high-risk due to fair skin, a history of sunburn, certain medications, or a family history of skin cancer. In between, doing your own monthly mole patrol is a great habit to cultivate, especially as part of a broader skincare routine.
What can I do to protect my skin?
Sunscreen is vital, but it is just one factor. A modern sun safety toolkit includes:
- Avoiding sun exposure between 11am and 3pm, when the UV index is highest
- Wearing a wide-brimmed densely woven hat (4 inches or more)
- Opt for UPF clothing, especially in water (some of the fashion is getting better here!)
- Use sunglasses with proper UV protection
- Finally, apply and reapply correctly-dosed, high factor broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen, a crucial step in any skincare routine.
The lowdown on sunscreen
We often get asked about mineral or chemical formulations, and the answer is that the best sunscreen is the one you'll actually wear daily. Look for a texture and finish you enjoy so applying it feels more like skincare and less like a chore.
A few sunscreen truths:
- Apply enough, for your face alone this means two finger lengths worth or ¼ teaspoon
- Chemical sunscreens needs to be applied for 30 minutes before sun exposure to activate
- Reapply every 2 hours, especially after sweating or swimming
- Don’t forget commonly missed areas, which include the back of the hands, ears, hairline and eyelids (use mineral sunscreens in this area for less irritation)
- Sunscreen expires -check the date before you rely on last summer’s tube
Protecting your skin isn’t about fear, it’s about empowerment. Build small habits, from sunscreen in the morning, every morning, to a monthly mole check with your mirror and booking in a skin check annually with a dermatologist.
And remember when in doubt, get it checked. Peace of mind is priceless.
