Seen the sun?

Skin damage due to UV exposure after a summer spent catching rays will show up on your face in several ways…

✣ TAN AND SUNBURN There’s no such thing as a ‘healthy tan’. Any colour is a sign that UV has reached your skin, while ‘getting sunburnt just once every two years can triple your risk of melanoma’, says Dr Rachel Orritt from Cancer Research UK. Treat sunburn with cold showers and flannels and aftersun, and don’t expose the skin further. Peeling is a sign of healing, but resist picking or scratching to avoid infection.

✣ AGE SPOTS Also known as liver or sun spots, these small, flat, dark patches are very common in adults over 50. True sun spots (check with your GP if you’re unsure) are nothing to worry about.

✣ FRECKLES AND MOLES Some freckles reappear in the summer or get darker, while others stay the same year round. Most moles and freckles are harmless, but it’s important to check at least every month – take photos to monitor them.

When to worry

Look out for new or changing moles, freckles or other areas of skin. If you notice any abnormalities, see your GP.