I’m an expert and here’s the five skin cancer red flags you need to know
BRITS have enjoyed a sunny weekend whilst celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.
But with the sunshine, it's likely many people are still feeling the burn from the heat.
It's key that you wear sunscreen, even when it's overcast as the UV rays can get through the clouds and cause deadly skin cancer.
Melanoma affects an estimated 16,700 people in the UK each year and is the fifth most common type of the illness.
One expert has warned that it has a range of early warning signs that we all need to be on guard for.
Hair and skin specialist, Sam Cinkir said the condition can have a devastating impact on our lives and the lives of our loved ones.
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The CEO said early detection can significantly improve the chances of treating it effectively.
"We should be doing all we can to avoid skin cancer in the first place, and using sufficient sunscreen to block out harmful UVA and UVB rays should be an important part of our daily routine all year around, not just when it’s sunny.
"If you are worried about the potential development of skin cancer, it’s vital to contact your GP as soon as possible and have your symptoms checked out," he said.
With that in mind, Sam said there are five things everyone should be on the look out for.
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1. Changes in moles
Many of us have skin growths called moles, which are generally harmless but can be a common place for melanomas to develop, Sam explained.
"It’s important to check your moles regularly for any changes that might occur.
"Use the ABCDE method – asymmetry, border, colour, diameter and evolving – and seek advice from your GP if you notice any changes in these characteristics."
2. Difference in nails
Skin cancer can develop anywhere in our bodies and that includes on the nails.
Melanomas can present as dark spots or streaks under our nails and this might look like someone has painted a brown line down your nail.
The skin around the nail can also become darker and a small bump or nodule underneath, as well as splitting of the nail, can also be red flags, Sam said.
3. Itching
It's normal to experience itching, and it can be caused from anything from perfumes or sprays or even hay fever.
But Sam warned that if you have persistent itching, then this could be a red flag when it comes to cancer - especially if it sits alongside other key signs.
He added that these symptoms can often be confused for an insect bite - so it's key to keep an eye on them.
4. Impaired vision
While melanomas traditionally appear on our skin, they can also develop in the eyes and cause changes in our vision, Sam said.
The guru explained; "Ocular melanoma can be difficult to notice until it’s really advanced, and symptoms include blurred vision, discoloured spots and an increased number of floaters – the squiggly lines some of us have in our vision.
"Regular eye check-ups are encouraged as they are often the best way to detect ocular melanoma."
5. Scaly patches
Dry and scaly skin can often be a sign of a skin condition like eczema.
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But if it's a persistent symptom and you don't suffer from an ailment already, then it could be a sign of skin cancer.
"If regular moisturising doesn’t deal with the problem, it’s important to seek help from your GP," Sam added.
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