How to protect YOUR SKIN

Reduce your risk of skin damage and ageing, and spot the signs of skin cancer early, with our expert advice

- TANYA PEAREY

As the weather gets warmer, we're prompted to peel off the layers and get out there to enjoy it, but we do need to spare a thought for keeping our skin safe. 'UV rays from sun exposure damage skin cells, causing premature ageing and skin cancer,' says consultant dermatologist Dr Ramia Mokbel. 'So it's important to protect your skin from the sun.'

Shield yourself

The best way to protect your skin is to stay out of the sun when it's at its hottest and most damaging - from 11am-3pm during the summer, and in spring when the sun is lower in the sky and our skin has reduced protection after the winter months. In the UK, the sun can be strong enough to damage skin between mid-March and mid-October.

'Stay in the shade or, if you do have to go out in the sun, cover your skin with a layer of clothes,' advises Dr Mokbel. 'Outside of these hours, wear sunscreen (SPF 30+ and four or five stars) if you're out in the sun, and reapply it every two hours or whenever you go into the water. Remember to put it on 20-30 minutes before going outside to give it time to work.'

Two teaspoons' worth should be enough to cover your face, neck and arms. For your body (in a swimsuit), you'll need about two tablespoons of cream.

ARE YOU HIGH RISK?

* You're more prone to skin cancer if you: 

* Are fair-skinned or have red hair and lots of freckles.