Sun safety story

A surgeon warns that sun safety must go beyond sunscreen as melanoma cases rise and everyday habits fall short.

Six sun safety mistakes that raise skin cancer risk

A Cambridge University Hospital Trust plastic surgery lead says the department removes sun related cancers for more than a thousand patients each year. The warning comes with an amber heat alert as temperatures rise above 30C. Melanoma rates in the UK have climbed in the last decade. Sun safety messages now emphasize year round protection for all ages and skin types.

Experts list six common mistakes. They include wearing SPF only on sunny days, using too little sunscreen, applying it after you go outside, avoiding SPF because of cancer fears, relying on SPF in makeup, and assuming makeup SPF is enough. Doctors urge a broader approach with protective clothing, hats, shade, and hydration. They note that babies and young children have very sensitive skin and that vitamin D may require safe sun exposure or supplements. Regular mole checks can catch early signs of melanoma and fast dermatologist review is available in many services.

The piece shows a shift in public health messaging toward year round protection and practical steps. It also highlights a challenge in changing habits across generations, especially for children who spend time outdoors. The rising melanoma numbers warn that prevention must work as a cost of inaction grows.

There is a tension between simple sun care tips and real life behavior. The article points to myths about SPF and the limited protection offered by some products. A stronger approach would mix clear education with practical steps such as better shade in public spaces and clearer labeling of sunscreen. The report also invites scrutiny of how private providers contribute to public health messaging and the need to reach diverse communities with simple, actionable guidance.

Highlights

Sun safety is a daily habit that evolves with weather, science, and daily life.