I’m prone to a freckle or two. Red hair and growing up in a hot climate have resulted in my body being covered in them. Returning from a recent skiing trip, however, my skin has taken on a hue I have never had before. I’m not talking a tan or even a healthy glow, I’m talking sun damage. I’m 27, super-paranoid about sunburn and skin cancer, and have just spent a week on the slopes slapping on high-factor sun cream; yet, somehow I’ve come back with overexposure. And I’m not the only one. Friends my age with lush, olive complexions are saying their skin is suffering irreparably, with the appearance of sunspots. Worryingly, though, the cosmetic concerns aren’t the most pressing.

There has been a significant rise in skin cancer rates. For those under 44, rates have quadrupled since 1975 (according to Cancer Research UK) and, according to more statistics released recently, the potentially fatal malignant melanoma has just overtaken cervical cancer as the most common cancer in women under 30.

The elusive tan we crave to make us look healthy is actually the result of the appearance of damaged skin cells. These cells can develop into skin cancer 15 to 20 years after the original sun damage. Around 80 per cent of all skin damage occurs before the age of 18, so it’s important to monitor your skin carefully, whatever your age.

Check your skin regularly to look for changes, particularly to moles, which can reveal developing melanomas. The British Association of Dermatologists issues the following guidelines when checking moles: A for asymmetry – do the two halves of the area differ in shape? B for border – are the edges of the area irregular or blurred? C for colour – is the mole’s colour uneven? (Different shades of black, brown and pink may be visible.) D for diameter – most melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. E for expert – most importantly, if you are in any doubt, get it checked by a professional.

If you have a history of sunburn or have skin cancer in the family, your GP can check your skin or, if you’re in London, the MOLE Clinic carries out the MOLECheck (£115, www.themoleclinic.co.uk): a top-to-toe non-invasive service using digital imaging to investigate irregularities.

As for the more cosmetic sun damage – the best cure is prevention. Wear a high-factor sunscreen, at least SPF15, every day, a hat at all times in the sunshine and exfoliate regularly. Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant (£32.70, 0800 591818) contains rice-based enzymes to accelerate cell renewal.

Sarah Vine is away

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