AS THE summer gets into full swing, the NHS has highlighted the importance of staying safe while enjoying the sun and the dangers of too much sunbathing.

Short bursts of sunshine provide much-needed vitamin D but basking in the sun's glare for long periods can substantially increase the risk of skin cancer, which is now one the most common forms of the disease.

NHS Redbridge says that, as sunbathing becomes more and more popular among all ages – particularly young women – residents need to be aware of the risks.

The trust has also highlighted the dangers of sunbeds, which are also growing in popularity. Experts say one minute on a sunbed is equivalent to an hour in the sun.

Skin cancer can be treated successfully if caught early enough, so people should look out for a number of signs.

Unusual moles which have recently appeared or increased in size should be investigated, particularly if they they appear smooth and pearly, waxy, or as a firm red lump.

If they bleed, are itchy, develop a crust or scab, begin to show signs of healing yet never fully heal, look like a flat, red spot which is scaly and crusty, or even develop a painless ulcer, then you should contact your GP.

Other moles which show up on your face, scalp, arms, back of hands, and lower legs, and have a scaly appearance, a hard and rough cap, are tender to touch, or have increased in size, should be referred to your doctor.

The trust also advises that any other unusual change with your skin which does not disappear within a month should also be investigated.

There are a number of tips you can follow to staying safe in the sun:

- Don’t sunbathe excessively or when the sun is hottest in the sky (between 11am and 3pm).

- Never go out into direct sunlight for more than half an hour at a time.

- Always wear sun cream which is factor 15 or above.

- Wear a T-shirt when you are out in the sun.

- If you must be tanned - fake it. There's a wide range of products on the market to give you an instant dark tan without any of the dangers.

For more information about sunbathing or skin cancer, contact your GP or call NHS Redbridge Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0800 0926 995.