REDUCING YOUR RISK

RATES OF SKIN CANCER IN the UK have been rising significantly since the 1970s. Its incidence is thought to have increased as much as 360 per cent during this time. ‘With skin cancer the most common cancer, it’s vital that we arm ourselves with the knowledge to protect our skin, but also to be vigilant about the early signs of skin cancer,’ says Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist (dranjalimahto.co.uk) and author of The Skincare Bible (£14.99, Penguin Life).

There are three main types of skin cancer: melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. We take a look at each…

MELANOMA SKIN CANCER

This is the fifth most-common cancer in the UK. It develops from the pigment-producing cells in the skin, known as melanocytes. Melanoma can develop as a new mole on the skin or within a pre-existing mole.

‘Ultraviolet light from the sun or from artificial tanning beds is the single biggest culprit. Other risk factors include fair skin,