Sun, UV and cancer
Too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or sunbeds can damage DNA in your skin cells and cause skin cancer.
In the UK up to 9 in 10 cases of melanoma skin cancer could be prevented by staying safe in the sun and avoiding sunbeds.
The best way to enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin is to use shade, clothing and sunscreen.
How does the sun and UV cause cancer?
Too much UV radiation from the sun and sunbeds can damage DNA in your skin cells and cause skin cancer.
The UV index and sunburn risk
In the UK, the sun is often strong enough to cause skin damage between mid-March and mid-October.
Sun safety
When the sun is strong spend time in the shade, cover up with clothing, and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4 or more stars
How do sunbeds cause skin cancer?
UV rays from sunbeds can damage the DNA in your skin cells and cause skin cancer.
Sun and vitamin D
We all need some vitamin D for healthy bones. But you don’t need to sunbathe to get enough vitamin D.
Tanning, fake tan and Melanotan
There is no such thing as safe UV tanning. If you want a tan, use bottled fake tan or get a spray tan. Melanotan products are not safe to use.
