Protect Your Skin: Sun Awareness and Skin Cancer Prevention This May

May 12, 2025 Skin Care

 

May marks two important health-related campaigns, Skin Cancer Awareness Month and Sun Awareness Week. Both are dedicated to educating the public on the dangers of sun exposure and the simple steps we can take to protect our skin.

 

Sun Awareness Week - 12th–18th May

Taking place from 12th to 18th May, Sun Awareness Week is an annual initiative led by the British Association of Dermatologists. Its goal is to promote sun safety and increase understanding of skin cancer, which is now one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK.

The campaign encourages everyone to take their skin health seriously by adopting good sun habits and learning how to spot early signs of damage or abnormalities. While the sun may feel great on our skin, too much exposure without protection significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer.

Find out more on the official Sun Awareness Week page.

 

Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Throughout May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month puts the spotlight on the rising rates of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Around 16,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed in the UK each year, and rates have doubled over the past few decades.

Early detection is vital. Most skin cancers are highly treatable when caught early, so recognising changes in your skin could save your life.

 

How to Check Your Skin for Signs of Skin Cancer

It’s important to regularly check your skin from head to toe, especially areas not easily visible like your back or the backs of your legs. Here's what to look for:

• New growths or spots that weren't there before
• Moles that change in size, shape, or colour
• Asymmetry, where one half of a mole doesn't match the other
• Irregular borders or multiple colours in a single mole
• Persistent sores that don't heal or bleed
• Itching or tenderness in a mole
   

If you notice anything unusual or changes that concern you, speak to your GP or a dermatologist. It's always better to be cautious and have it checked than to ignore potential warning signs.

 

Why Sun Protection Matters in the UK

Many people wrongly assume that the UK's cooler, cloudier climate means we don't need to worry as much about sun protection. That isn’t the case. Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can pass through light cloud cover, and harmful UVA rays responsible for ageing and long-term skin damage are present year-round.

Even on overcast or mild days, UV exposure can still damage skin. This makes daily sun protection essential, whether you’re heading out for a walk, sitting by a window at work, or spending the weekend in the garden. 

 

Wear Sun Cream

Sunscreen is your first line of defence against UV damage. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. SPF 30 is generally the minimum recommended for daily use, while SPF 50 is ideal for long days outdoors or sensitive skin types. If you’re unsure what kind of sunscreen is best for you and your family, this article from the British Skin Foundation may answer any questions you have.

Here at Simply Meds Online, we stock a comprehensive range of sun care products for the whole family. These are three of our more popular products. 

 

Anthelios Suncream by La Roche-Posay

Anthelios SPF50 Sunscreen offers high-level, broad-spectrum protection while remaining gentle on sensitive skin. With a non-greasy, lightweight formula, it's water-resistant and absorbs quickly, making it perfect for everyday wear under makeup. It also contains antioxidants to help guard against environmental stressors. Dermatologist-recommended and widely trusted, this sunscreen is ideal for adults and children alike.

 

Other Preventative Measures

Sun safety involves more than just applying cream. You can further protect yourself by:

• Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses
• Choosing long-sleeved clothing and tightly woven fabrics
• Staying in the shade during peak UV hours (usually 11am–3pm)
• Avoiding sunbeds and tanning booths, which significantly increase skin cancer risk
• Hydrating your skin after sun exposure
   

Nivea After Sun Lotion

After time in the sun, skin needs nourishment. Nivea Aftersun contains Aloe Vera and Vitamin E to soothe and cool your skin. It replenishes lost moisture, prevents peeling, and supports skin recovery. Its fast-absorbing texture provides instant relief, especially after a day outdoors or at the beach.

 

Fruits of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel

Known for its natural healing properties, Aloe Vera Gel is perfect for calming sun-stressed skin. This gel delivers hydration while reducing inflammation and redness, and it can be used on minor burns, bites, and rashes. It’s a great product to keep in your summer first aid kit.

 

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly

Getting full protection depends on how you apply your sunscreen. 

• Apply 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors
• Use 6-8 teaspoons to cover your entire body (See NHS Guidelines)
• Cover all exposed skin, including ears, tops of feet, scalp (if exposed), and back of the neck
• Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating
• Don’t rely on makeup with SPF as your only protection
   

Daily use of sunscreen isn’t just for beach days; it should be part of your regular skincare routine, even when you're not planning to be outside for long.

 

Protect Yourself From Skin Cancer With Simply Meds Online

Skin cancer is largely preventable, and with just a few simple habits, you can significantly reduce your risk. Sun Awareness Week and Skin Cancer Awareness Month serve as important reminders that your skin deserves care and attention all year round.

At Simply Meds Online, we offer a range of dermatologist-approved sun care products to help protect and soothe your skin. Whether you need high-SPF sunscreen, soothing aftersun, or natural aloe vera relief, here at Simply Meds Online, we’ve got you covered.