The ultraviolet rays in strong sunlight can be harmful to the skin.
Too much sun will speed up the ageing process of the skin, make it leathery, mottled and wrinkled.
The most serious effect is an increased chance of skin cancer. It can be cured, but it must be treated early.
Some people are more at risk than others. People with white skin are most at risk but this varies a lot. Take particular care if you have:
fair or freckled skin that does not tan, or burns before it tans
red or fair hair and light coloured eyes
a large number of moles.
The sun’s rays are most intense in the three or four hours around the middle of the day.
Getting burned now may increase your chances of skin cancer years later, so try to avoid the reddening that is the first sign of burning.
The best form of protection is shade, so wear a hat and keep your shirt on.
The first warning sign is often a small scabby spot which does not clear after a few weeks. Look for changed or newly formed moles or any skin discoloration.
If you notice any of these signs, consult your doctor.
Usually these signs will be harmless, but have a medical check to make sure. Even if a spot is cancerous, simple modern treatments can usually cure it, and most do not spread to other parts of the body.
The smaller the spot, the easier it is to cure, so do not put off going for treatment when you know you should.
And please remember, the best form of protection is shade, so.
