Each year, more people are diagnosed with skin cancer than all other cancers combined. That’s why May, recognised as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, is the perfect time to shed light on the importance of skin protection, early detection, and treatment options. Whether you’re a sun lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or just someone who walks to work, this month is a vital reminder to take skin health seriously.
The Scope of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is one of the most diagnosed types of cancer in the UK. The three major types are:
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Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) – The most common but least aggressive form.
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Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) – Can be more serious if left untreated.
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Melanoma – The deadliest form, but highly treatable if caught early.
Melanoma accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers but causes the vast majority of skin cancer deaths. There are around 17,500 new melanoma skin cancer cases in the UK, every year, that’s 48 every day. Yet, many of these cases are preventable with simple protective measures and regular skin checks.
Sun Safety: Your Best Defence
The leading cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from tanning beds. But the good news is that it’s easy to protect yourself and those you love:
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Use a Sunscreen Daily: Choose a broad-spectrum, ideally SPF 40 or above and apply it generously every two to four hours when outdoors.
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Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses will add extra layers of defense.
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Stay in the Shade: especially between the sunniest hours,10 am and 4 pm, when UV rays are strongest.
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Avoid Tanning Beds: No tan is worth the long-term risk that sunbeds pose.
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Know Your Skin: Perform monthly skin checks and keep an eye on new or changing moles or spots.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Skin cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when it is found early. Warning signs include:
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Asymmetry in moles
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Borders that are irregular or blurred
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Colour changes or multiple colours in a single mole
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Diameter larger than a pencil eraser
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Evolving in size, shape, or colour
If you notice any of these changes, schedule an appointment with your doctor’s surgery to get it checked.
Spreading Awareness and Hope
Skin Cancer Awareness Month is not just about warnings—it’s about empowerment. It’s about sharing facts, stories of survival, and encouraging everyone to take proactive steps toward prevention and early detection.
At Aeternum Aesthetics, we are using this month as an opportunity to spread the word and we would love you to do the same:
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Talk to friends and family about sun safety
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Share educational resources on social media
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Support organisations dedicated to skin cancer research and patient care
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Book a skin examination if you have any areas of concern
Final Thoughts
Your skin is your body’s largest organ—and it’s the only one that’s constantly exposed to the elements. Protect it, respect it, and check it regularly. Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a powerful reminder that a few simple habits can make a world of difference.
Let’s commit to skin health, not just in May, but all year long.
