Eight out of ten of us are not applying sunscreen properly before going out in the sun.
This is the finding of a survey carried out by the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD).
BAD recommends we apply sunscreen before going into the sun and then again shortly after. This means we will have less chance of missing spots and will apply a thick enough layer to get proper protection.
Plus, we should reapply sunscreen every two hours – but 70 per cent of us are not doing so.
Failing to apply sunscreen properly means that many of us are risking our skin by getting burnt. In fact, the survey revealed that 72 per cent of people admitted they got burnt by the sun last year.
And, with sunburn being the leading cause of skin cancer, this is really bad news.
People with a history of sunburn have more than double the risk of developing melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer – compared to those who have never been burnt by the sun.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and rates have been climbing since the 1960s as our love of the sun has grown.
More than 2,000 people die every year of skin cancer in the UK.
Skin cancer check
We are offering skin cancer checks to everyone – you don’t even need to be a Medcare patient. The cost is 35 euros.
During the check our doctor will examine any moles, marks or lesions to check for signs of skin cancer.
If anything suspicious is found we can do a biopsy and order further investigations.
Follow this guide from BAD to make sure you remain safe in the sun. Click the image to view better. To download the full brochure from BAD click here…
Are you at risk of skin cancer? Anyone can get skin cancer but some people have a higher risk than others. Read the guide above to find out how great your risk is. Click on the image to view better. To download the full guide from BAD click here…
Because early diagnosis saves lives, it is important to regularly examine your skin for signs of skin cancer. Follow the seven-point guide below from BAD to ensure you give yourself a thorough check. Any changes to moles, or lesions or other suspicious marks should be examined by your doctor. We have also added the BAD guide to melanoma, as this is the most serious form of skin cancer.
For more information on skin cancer from BAD download the full guide here…
The World UV App
A free app that gives live UV ratings anywhere in the world – use the app to keep an eye on the sun’s rays and be aware when they reach harmful levels.
Download your free app