Fair Skin and Sun Exposure

Everyone is at risk of sun exposure, but those with fair skin are much more susceptible to sun damage.

So why is this the case?

UV exposure has been proven to significantly increase the risk of skin cancer among those with fair skin because those with pale skin produce a lot less eumelanin, which is a protective, dark pigment found in the hair and skin.

The Role of Melanin

Melanin helps block out damaging UV rays.

Those individuals with lighter skin have less melanin to protect them and are more likely to burn.

Those with naturally darker skin will find that they are less likely to get sunburned as the skin will tan due to an increase in the activity and number of melanocytes (the cells that make the pigment melanin).

Sunburns can increase your risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. That’s why it is especially important for fair-skinned individuals to take care in the sun in order to avoid burning.

However, UV exposure can raise skin cancer risk even without causing sunburn. Even those with very dark skin are still at risk, so while those with fair skin need to be very careful, so does everyone else.

High factor protection with sunscreen is a vital step to protecting the skin – this should be worn year round. It is also advised to avoid prolonged exposure, avoid the times when the sun is at its highest and cover up with protective clothing/headwear too.

Mole Checking

Vigilance against ‘odd’ or changing moles is important to identify any concerns as early as possible. Dr Ross Perry, a leading mole removal expert who is the Company’s founder and Medical Director, calls it the ‘ugly duckling sign’ and advises patients to seek medical attention as soon as possible to rule out skin cancer.

Doctors at Cosmedics Skin Clinics warn their patients to always be vigilant for suspicious moles and to regularly check themselves and loved ones in a detailed ‘top to toe’ mole check from the scalp to the soles of the feet.

Mole Removal

 

Cosmedics Skin Clinics offer mole removal in London and Bristol with qualified and experienced doctors. Moles are removed using the latest surgical techniques including laser mole removal; with techniques designed to minimise scarring and make the procedure entirely painless.

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.