Summer getaways are just around the corner. We all love a holiday and that feeling of heading to the airport early, getting those last minute essentials before two weeks of sun and relaxation! We can’t wait to get on that beach, get “the tan” and show off our golden glow as soon as we get back, but at what cost?

Recently, I took an accredited course with Skcin UK, an amazing charity that helps raise awareness of skin cancer within the UK. As a Spray Tan Therapist, I see skin on a daily basis and so wanted to learn more about what to look out for as early detection of skin cancer can make a huge difference…

 The statistics below were provided by Cancer Research UK in 2018 and are frightening to say the least…

• Skin cancer is the most common and fastest rising cancers in the UK.
• Over the last 25 years, rates of melanoma in Britain have risen faster, killing more people than in the sunshine capital of the world, Australia.
• There are over 2,400 deaths from melanoma each year
• Sunbed users and active tan seekers are at greater risk. Using a sunbed just once a month can increase a persons risk of developing skin cancer by more than 50% and regular sunbed users under the age of 35 increases a persons risk by an alarming 87%
• It’s a common misconception that using a sunbed will prepare or protect the skin against burning before going on holiday – it won’t. It just increases damage and risk, along with premature ageing, wrinkling and sagging of the skin.
• A massive 86% of melanoma cases are actually preventable!

With stats like that, I wanted to share with you 5 steps you can take to stay safe in the sun this Summer…

SLIP on clothing, this can be one of the most effective barriers between our skin and the sun. Make sure shoulders are protected as they can burn easily.

SLOP on SPF 30+ Sunscreen, make sure it carries a UVA symbol and apply generously at least 20 minutes before sun exposure.

SLAP on a wide brimmed hat to shield face, neck and ears.

SLIDE on the shades and go for high quality protection, look for the european CE mark which indicates a safe level of protection.

SHADE from the sun where possible, particularly between the hours of 11am-3pm when the sun is at its hottest.

By following these steps above, you’ll be doing all you can to take care of your skin. The safest way you can tan is either a professional spray tan or self tanning. It will give you that golden glow you crave, it will give you the confidence to hit the beach from the very start of your holiday, the only thing it won’t give you is skin cancer!

If you take nothing else away from this blog post, please do one thing for me, check your moles and if you notice even the slightest change, whether that’s in size, shape, colour, becoming itchy or raised, please go and see your GP. It might just save your life!

Until, next time, enjoy your holiday and look after your skin this Summer!

Love,

Nina x