Enjoy the summer sun and get a tan the safe way

Having a tan seems to be the new 'in' thing. Soon, people may stop using whitening skin products and do whatever they can to have tanned, glowing skin.

Many people will lie out in the sun for hours to get a tan. This increases a person's chances of getting skin cancer. Sunbathers also often use low protection sunscreen and lie in the sun even on the hottest days.

The government should educate people about the relationship between sunbathing and skin cancer.

It should display advertisements, organise talks and give out leaflets to help prevent people from getting skin cancer.

MABEL YAU Thanks for your letter, Mabel. The sun can indeed cause serious damage to your skin. Studies have shown that the most damage occurs during childhood or the early teens, but it doesn't show up until later in life.

This isn't to say that you shouldn't go out in the sun. In fact, getting some sun is actually good for you - and is an excellent source of Vitamin D, which is essential for good health (and bones).

The key is not to get too much sun. Be especially careful from 11am to 3pm, when the sun is at its hottest. Make sure to re-apply sun lotion after you've been swimming and wear a hat or baseball cap. You can have a lot of fun in the sun this summer, just make sure to take some practical precautions.

Kate, Editor