Skin Cancer Awareness Month - Expert Advice on Safely Enjoying the Sun

As May marks skin cancer awareness month, we are sharing expert commentary from Dr. Tijion Esho, who is encouraging safe sun practices and smart skin protection. According to Cancer Research UK, 86% of melanoma cases are preventable, with most cases being due to UV exposure. Enjoying the sun safely is critical to your health.

We speak to Prof. Dr. Tijion Esho a medical doctor and skin health expert and founder of CULTSKIN – a doctor-led clinic specialising in regenerative aesthetics.

“As a skin doctor, I can’t overstate the importance of protecting your skin not just for aesthetics, but for your long-term health. Skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet we still see too many cases due to poor sun habits, delayed checks, and misinformation.”

What are your thoughts on SPF in makeup – is it enough protection?

"SPF in makeup is better than nothing but it’s not enough on its own. Most people don’t apply enough product to get the full protection listed on the label, and it often wears off during the day."

• "Use a dedicated broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 underneath your makeup daily.

• Consider reapplying with a mineral powder SPF or mist if you're outdoors for extended periods."

Is tanning ever safe, even with sunscreen or self-tanner?

"There is no such thing as a ‘safe tan’ from UV exposure. A tan is your skin showing DNA damage. Even with sunscreen, you’re still exposing your skin to harmful rays just at a slower rate."

• "Self-tanners and gradual tanning lotions are a safer cosmetic alternative but do not offer any UV protection you still need SPF.

• Spray tans and bronzers can mimic the look of a tan, but they don't protect against UVA or UVB."

What’s the “ABCDE” rule for spotting melanoma, and how reliable is it?

"Yes, it’s a useful screening tool for identifying suspicious moles:"

• "Asymmetry: one half doesn’t match the other

• Border: edges are irregular or blurred

• Colour: uneven or multiple shades

• Diameter: larger than 6mm (but melanomas can be smaller)

• Evolution: changes in size, shape, or sensation"

"While not every mole that fits these rules is cancerous, they are important red flags and should be checked by a professional, especially if anything changes."

How do you balance mole removal for safety versus cosmetic concerns?

"If a mole is even remotely suspicious, it should be assessed first through proper dermoscopy or biopsy. Cosmetic removal is only safe once malignancy is ruled out. At CULTSKIN, we balance aesthetics and safety using non-invasive mapping tools before deciding to remove anything."

What small changes can make a big difference in protecting your skin long term?

Changes That Make a Big Difference for Skin Health:

• "Wear SPF 50 daily, even in winter

• Avoid peak sun hours (11am–3pm)

• Reapply SPF every 2 hours when outdoors

• Cover up with UPF-rated clothing, sunglasses, and hats

• Schedule annual skin checks, especially if you’re over 50 or have a family history of skin cancer"

Can people still enjoy the sun safely?

"Absolutely. The goal isn’t to avoid the sun, it's to enjoy it smartly. Seek shade during peak hours, protect exposed areas, and never rely on a tan or makeup as your only defence. The sun is powerful and so are your choices."