Skin Cancer Awareness Month | Keeping your Skin Healthy

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of skin cancer and the importance of early detection and prevention. According to the British Skin Foundation, ‘Skin cancer is [one of] the most common forms of cancer in the UK and rates continue  to rise. At least 100,000 new cases are now diagnosed each year, and the disease kills over 2,500 people each year in the UK - that's seven people every day.’ This May, we’ll be running a #skincancerawarenessmonth campaign and giveaway on our social media accounts. So, keep a lookout via our TikTok, Instagram and Facebook for all the latest updates and for a chance to win an incredible summer skincare hamper worth £150!

It’s important to remember that anyone can get skin cancer. However, by taking appropriate steps to protect your skin from UV radiation, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. 

Here are some important facts about skin cancer:

• Anyone can get skin cancer: people of all ages, races, and skin types can develop skin cancer.
• UV radiation is the main cause: exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds is the main cause of skin cancer.
• Early detection is key: when detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
• Prevention is possible: by taking steps to protect your skin from UV radiation, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.

Here are some tips for protecting your skin and preventing skin cancer:

• Wear protective clothing: cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Use sunscreen: use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, such as Heliocare 360, with at least SPF 30 and reapply every 2 hours.
• Seek shade: stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day (10am-4pm) when the sun's UV rays are the strongest.
• Avoid tanning beds: tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation and increase your risk of skin cancer.
• Check your skin regularly: be aware of any changes to your skin, such as new moles or growths, and have any suspicious spots checked by a dermatologist.
• Get a skin cancer screening: talk to your doctor about whether a skin cancer screening is recommended for you.

Together, we can work to reduce the incidence of skin cancer and ensure that more people are able to enjoy healthy, happy, and sun-safe lives - for you and all the family.