Look Out For New Or Changing Moles On Return From Holiday, UK

The Royal College of Physicians and British Association of Dermatologists advised holidaymakers to look for changes to their skin on return from holiday, particularly the growth of new moles or changes to existing moles. Being alert can save lives, as these changes can be signs of skin cancer, and patients have a better chance of being treated successfully if melanomas are found early.For information on moles and its relation to melanoma, visit:http://www.medicalnewstoday.com

Moles are the pigmented cells that appear as small, dark brown spots on your face, torso, arms and legs. But, moles can develop anywhere including your scalp, between your fingers and toes, and under your armpits.

New moles can appear in the adulthood and some moles can disappear as you age. Majority of moles are harmless, but some moles can become cancerous. When you return from holiday, you have to observe the changes in the skin, particularly the growth of new moles, change in color or size.

Many people are not exposed to sun most of the time. But, when you are on holiday trip, you are at more risk of developing melanoma, a skin cancer, because of exposure to sun all the time. Many people take sunbath and spend most of the time near beaches, which is the main cause for the occurrence of moles.

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is the cause for skin cancer. Exposure to sun light during winter puts you at the same risk as exposure during summer time [Protect skin from sunburns]. Fair skinned people are at greater risk of melanoma than dark colored people. Other risk factors include people with red hair and family history. Sun exposure causes most of the skin changes and damages the fibers in the skin.

How can you prevent melanoma skin cancer?

Avoid exposure to the sun and apply sunscreen lotion with SPF factor of 15 or greater 30 minutes before exposing to the sun. But, remember that you should not think that as you have applied sunscreen you can spend most of the time in sun because it will not protect for the whole day. You have to apply for every few hours.

Wear sunglasses with UV protection and use cosmetic products that offer UV protection. Avoid direct exposure to sun during peak hours. Wear a hat that casts shade over your complete face.

When you take preventive steps while on holiday trip, you can prevent the risk of melanoma skin cancer.