THE weather may be hotting up, but be careful not to burn on Brighton’s beaches this summer – staying safe in the sun is the best way to prevent skin cancer.

With three major sunscreens failing the SPF test in last month’s Which? guide, and the invention of the world’s first drinkable sunscreen making the headlines, it’s easy to feel left in the dark about the best brands to buy.

For all-over sun protection for the whole family, there's Soltan Moisturising Suncare Lotion SPF 50+ (£10), a brand that passed the Which? tests with flying colours.

Even those staying in the shade should use SPF, so add some to your daily routine with Avène Hydrance Optimale Moisturiser SPF 20 (£14.50), which suits the most sensitive of skins, and Maybelline Baby Lips SPF 20 Lip Balm (£2.99).

A spokesperson for the British Skin Foundation said: “In the UK, over 100,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year and seven people die of the disease every day.

“The rates of malignant melanoma are rising faster than any other type of common cancer and there is currently no cure once it has spread beyond its original site.”

In memory of those lost to skin cancer each year, The British Skin Foundation has set up a new campaign called It Takes Seven, to fund further research into the disease.

Dr Russell Emerson, skin cancer expert and consultant dermatologist at Hove Skin Clinic, gives his advice on how to reduce the risk: l Seek shade from the sun when the sun’s rays are strongest, between 10am and 3pm l Wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, trousers, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses where possible.

If you suspect you may have skin cancer, see your GP right away.

Contact Dr Russell Emerson on 01273 719834 or visit hoveskinclinic.co.uk

Rosy Cherrington