Sun Protection: Why You Need Sunscreen All Year Round

Introduction

According to Cancer Research UK, there are around 18,300 new cases of melanoma skin cancer in the UK each year. That’s 50 every day. Do you wear sunscreen all year round? If not, here’s why you should.

Dr Derrick Phillips, Consultant Dermatologist at Welbeck Dermatology, takes us through the different types of UV light and the importance of wearing sunscreen to protect your skin.

What is UV radiation, and where do we get it from?

The sun emits 3 types of ultraviolet (UV) radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA and UVB are the 2 types that reach us here on Earth.

UV rays can damage the DNA of skin cells and key proteins, accelerating skin ageing and resulting in mutations that may develop into a form of skin cancer.

UVB peaks during the summer months and is largely responsible for sunburn episodes. UVA is present throughout the year and can pass through clouds and window glass, so it can still cause damage to your skin all year round, in all weathers.

When is it most important to protect our skin against UV radiation?

It's important to protect your skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation throughout the year, and not just during the summer months. Applying a high-factor sunscreen to exposed skin surfaces is an effective way to protect your skin.

The effects of UVA on skin ageing are best exemplified through the image of a lorry driver below. You can see that the side of his face that was closest to the window when driving has aged considerably more than the other side. This is why I recommend always wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 and at least four-star UVA protection all year round.

Is it important to get moles on your body checked?

You should regularly assess your moles for changes, such as melanoma, a potentially aggressive form of skin cancer, that you can develop in new or existing moles.

You're at increased risk of developing skin cancer, and an annual skin check with a dermatologist is recommended if you:

• have fair skin and burn easily

• have lived in hot countries,

• have many moles

• have a personal or family history of skin cancer

What's the best way to assess my moles for changes such as melanoma?

For those with many moles, mole mapping is a digital solution that allows moles to be monitored for change over time.

At Welbeck, we have the UK’s only Vectra WB360 mole mapping machine, which harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to accurately track moles, detect early changes, and identify suspicious skin lesions for treatment. We recommend checking your moles 2 to 3 times a year and comparing them to a set of baseline photographs. If you’re concerned about any moles or pigmentation on the skin, you should contact your GP or contact our Dermatology team to make an appointment.

While not a substitute for a professional check-up, you can regularly examine your moles at home for any changes. In a well-lit area, use a mirror to check your entire body, including your back and scalp (use a hand mirror for hard-to-see areas). Look for any new moles or existing moles that have changed in size, shape, colour (especially becoming uneven), or have become itchy, crusty, or start to bleed. Remember the ABCDE rule:

• A - asymmetry (uneven halves)

• B - border (irregular edges)

• C - colour (uneven or multiple colours)

• D - diameter (larger than 6mm)

• E - evolution (changing appearance)

If you notice any concerning changes, schedule an appointment with a Welbeck dermatologist for an expert evaluation.