As temperatures rise and more people spend time outdoors, doctors are urging the public to pay closer attention to subtle changes in their skin. They warn that the most important signs of skin cancer aren't always the ones people expect, and are often the easiest to dismiss.
Beyond Moles: The Lesser-Known Warning Signs
Many people know to look out for changes in moles. But experts say some warning signs can appear far less obvious, showing up instead as a faint pink patch, a dry or scaly area, or a small sore that lingers longer than it should. Dr Asiya Maula, a private GP at The Health Suite, said these less obvious symptoms are frequently ignored or dismissed as harmless skin irritation. As a result, people may delay getting them checked, missing an opportunity for earlier diagnosis.
"When people think about skin cancer, they often picture a dark mole changing shape or colour. While that can absolutely be a warning sign, it's not the only one," she explained. "Some skin cancers can appear as a pink or red patch or a shiny bump. It can also appear as a scaly area of skin or even a small sore that repeatedly scabs over but never fully heals."
Rising Cases and Persistent Symptoms
According to Cancer Research UK, skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, with cases continuing to rise each year. Despite this, experts say a key problem is that people often dismiss early warning signs because they seem harmless. Dr Maula said the most concerning cases are often those that have been overlooked for weeks or even months. "A patch of skin that remains red, itchy, flaky or slightly sore for weeks deserves attention, especially if it isn't improving," she said.
Health experts advise keeping an eye out for any unusual or persistent skin changes. These can include:
- A sore that doesn't heal within four weeks
- A pink, red or scaly patch of skin
- A shiny, pearly bump
- A persistent crusty area
- A mole that changes in size, shape or colour
- Any new mark that continues to grow
While changes to moles remain important, they are only part of the picture. "The key thing is persistence," Dr Maula added. "Skin naturally heals itself remarkably well. If something has been present for weeks or months and isn't resolving, it's worth getting checked."
UV Exposure and Daily Habits
The warning comes as warm weather encourages more time outside, increasing exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While a single day in the sun will not directly cause skin cancer, experts stress that cumulative exposure over time significantly raises the risk.
"Many people associate sun damage with holidays abroad, but a large amount of UV exposure actually happens during your daily routine," Dr Maula said. "Everyday activities like gardening, walking or sitting outside all contribute."
Seeking Medical Advice
Doctors say anyone who notices a persistent or unusual change in their skin should seek medical advice. Although most skin changes are harmless, early diagnosis of skin cancer can make a significant difference to treatment outcomes.
"I would always rather someone had a harmless spot checked than delay because they didn't think it looked like cancer," Dr Maula added. "The important message is not to focus solely on moles - any mark that changes or refuses to heal deserves attention."
