Stay safe in the sun this summer

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK and malignant melanoma – the most serious type – has become the most common form of cancer in young people aged 15 to 34. So how do you keep yourself, and your kids, safe in the sun?

Here's award winning author, Rachael Newcombe's top six tips for staying safe in the sun: 

1. Stay out of the sun when it’s at its hottest, from about 11am until 3pm. If you have to be outside during those times, then stay in the shade.
2. Wear sunscreen to protect your skin and to get into the habit of putting it on before you go out.
3. Clothing is a good way of covering up and protecting your skin.
4. Wear a hat to protect your head, and sunglasses to protect the eyes.
5. Reapply sunscreen if you’ve been in water.
6. Sunscreen and hats aren’t just something to think about at home, they’re also important at school too.

Up to 90% of skin cancer could be prevented if people were more aware of sun safety issues, Rachel's book Skin Cancer and Sun Safety - the Essential Guide explains how to keep safe.

Rachel Newcombe has a long-term interest in skin cancer and sun safety and won a Medical Association Award for work on the dangers of sunbeds.

Extract taken from Skin Cancer and Sun Safety - The Essential Guide. For more information on staying safe in the sun, take a look at the book - available now.