Skin Health Beyond the Surface: Observing Skin Cancer Awareness Month

As the days grow longer and I begin to enjoy more time outdoors in Shropshire, May serves as a timely reminder to look a little closer at the skin we’re in. While we often discuss skin in terms of rejuvenation and aesthetics, May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shift our focus toward the health and safety of our body’s largest organ.  

At JS Medical Aesthetics, I believe that true confidence comes from a foundation of health. Professional aesthetic treatments work best when the skin is well-protected and respected. This month, I want to share a few grounded, practical ways to keep your skin safe while still enjoying the sun.

The "Everyday" Mindset

It is a common misconception that sun damage only happens during a beach holiday or on a cloudless afternoon. In reality, UV rays are present even on overcast days. Incorporating a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or 50 into your daily routine—regardless of your plans—is the simplest and most effective act of self-care you can perform.  

Getting to Know Your Patterns

Early detection is everything. I encourage all our clients to perform a simple "skin check" once a month. You aren’t looking for perfection; you are looking for change.

A helpful guide is the ABCDE rule for moles:

• Asymmetry: Is one half unlike the other?

• Border: Are the edges irregular or blurred?

• Colour: Does it have multiple shades or an uneven tan/black/brown mix?  

• Diameter: Is it larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)?  

• Evolving: Has it changed in size, shape, or feel recently?

  
  

If you notice anything that feels "new, changing, or unusual," the best course of action is always a quick visit to your GP.

Professional Treatments & Sun Safety

If you are currently undergoing treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, or laser work, your skin is temporarily more vulnerable to the sun. These procedures work by encouraging cell turnover, which brings fresh, "new" skin to the surface. This new skin is more susceptible to burning and hyperpigmentation, making sun protection even more vital during your recovery phase.

A Balanced Approach

I'm not suggesting you stay indoors all summer. Sunshine is wonderful for our mood and Vitamin D levels. However, being "sun savvy", seeking shade during the peak hours of 11 am to 3 pm and wearing a wide-brimmed hat, allows you to enjoy the season without compromising your long-term skin health.

My Commitment to You

At my clinic in Ludlow, my approach is always medically-led and focused on what is right for the individual. I am here to help you feel good about yourself in a safe, honest environment.

This May, let’s make a collective effort to prioritise protection. If you have questions about which medical-grade SPF might be right for your skin type, or how to manage sun-damaged skin, I am always here for a quiet, no-pressure chat.

Stay safe, stay protected, and enjoy the beautiful Shropshire spring.

— Julie at JS Medical Aesthetics