Skin Cancer Awareness and Prevention.
Skin Cancer Awareness & Prevention
From The Skin Well™ | Drawn from the Happy Skin Leaflet Series
Skin cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the UK - and rates continue to rise.
The good news? Many types are preventable, and early detection saves lives. This checklist is here to help you protect your skin, spot changes early, and build simple habits that make a real difference.
This isn’t about fear. It’s about awareness, action, and support.
☀️ SUN & UV PROTECTION
☐ I regularly spend time outdoors without sun protection
☐ I don’t usually wear SPF daily (even in spring/autumn)
☐ I don’t use UV400 sunglasses to protect the skin around my eyes
☐ I’ve had sunburn - especially blistering sunburn - in the past
☐ I use sunbeds or seek tanning deliberately
What might help:
→ Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, and reapply when outdoors
→ Wear a hat, UV sunglasses, and cover exposed areas
→ See: Happy Sun, Happy Skin
🧴 SKIN TYPE & FAMILY HISTORY
☐ I have fair skin, freckles, red or light hair
☐ I burn easily or tan poorly
☐ I have a personal or family history of skin cancer
☐ I’ve had a large number of moles or atypical moles
What might help:
→ Be extra vigilant with sun protection and regular skin check
→ Speak to your GP or dermatologist about personalised guidance
→ See: Happy Sun, Happy Skin
🔍 MOLE & MARK CHECKING
☐ I’ve noticed a mole or mark that’s changing, bleeding, or itching
☐ I don’t regularly check my skin for new or changing areas
☐ I’m unsure how to check my moles - or what to look for
What might help:
→ Learn the ABCDE method to spot concerning signs:
Asymmetry (Two halves of lesion don’t match)
Border (irregular, blurred)
Colour (multiple or uneven)
Diameter (larger than 6mm)
Evolving (changing shape, size, or sensation)
→ See: Happy Sun, Happy Skin
→ If you're concerned, speak to a GP or use a trusted mole-checking service - either in person or online
🧠 AWARENESS & ROUTINE
☐ I don’t usually think about my skin until something goes wrong
☐ I’m unsure if I’m using the right SPF or protection techniques
☐ I’d like to take better care of my skin, but I’m not sure where to start
What might help:
→ Start small - use SPF, wear a hat, check your skin once a month
→ Empower yourself with practical education and support
→ See: Happy Skincare products, Happy Skin
💡REMEMBER
Skin cancer doesn’t just affect people who sunbathe. It can affect anyone - and prevention starts with simple, everyday habits. Knowing your skin, protecting it, and seeking help early are powerful steps.
If you’re unsure about a mole or mark, speak to your GP or a dermatologist. Don’t wait.
Disclaimer
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the information in this leaflet is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional advice.
Version: [April / 2025]
© 2025 Jacqui de Jager | The Skin Well™ & The Happy Skin Clinic®
All rights reserved. This leaflet is for personal use and education only. It may not be reproduced, distributed, or adapted without written permission.
