Do you worry about the effects the sun can have on your skin? Or even on your health?

Even high factor sun cream cannot be relied on to protect us against the deadliest forms of skin cancer: suggested by new research.

A study by Cancer Research UK found that although high factor sun cream can reduce DNA damage, it does not provide complete protection.

Scientists discovered that UV light also causes faults in the gene that normally helps to protect against sun damage. “UV light targets the very genes protecting us from its own damaging effects, showing how dangerous this cancer-causing agent is. Very importantly, this study provides proof that sunscreen does not offer complete protection from the damaging effects of UV light.”

Health information at Cancer Research UK, suggests that people exposed to sunlight must wear a cream with good UVA protection. "This research adds important evidence showing that sunscreen has a role, but that you shouldn't just rely on this to protect your skin.”

Therefore public health campaigns are right to promote a combination of sun protection methods such as hats and seeking shade as well as using a sun cream with at least SPF25 and good UVA protection.

The SunSmart campaign suggests these simple steps: Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm.
 Make sure you never burn.

Aim to cover up with a T-shirt, hat and sunglasses.

Remember to take extra care with children.

Then use factor 25+ sunscreen.

Skin cancer is now the fifth most common cancer in the UK, with more than 13,000 people being diagnosed with the disease every year.

Cancer Research UK said the numbers of cases are increasing, which has led the charity to make skin cancer a key focus of research.

Protect your skin.

Based on information supplied by Amy Crawford.