Hi if this is the first time you have had sunburn on your head then I really wouldn't fixate on the idea that you will get skin cancer from this incident. Lots of people get sunburn and even use tanning beds etc and don't get skin cancer, and vice versa. I'm not an expert but I'd say the best thing you can do is just keep a semi-regular check on your skin and maybe ask someone else to have a look at your scalp if you are performing skin checks, and keep it protected and covered in future.

Being aware of skin cancer risks and staying alert is never a bad thing, but equally it's easy to develop health anxiety by becoming fixated on them - I know because I've been there myself. It's all about keeping the balance between being sensible and keeping a check on your skin/health, and letting your mind wander to the worst case scenarios! All the best to you, I'm sure all will be fine

Hello and thank you for your post.

A one off sunburn episode is not going to significantly raise your future risk of skin cancer, so try to not over worry about this.

Repeated episodes of sunburn, or sunbathing without using sunscreen, or using sunbeds, over a long period of time is more likely to increase the risk of skin cancer.

We have information about keeping safe in the sun on our link here,

www.cancerresearchuk.org/.../sun-safety

And more here,

www.skinhealthinfo.org.uk/.../

We don't endorse particular brands, but suggest that people use at least an SPF of 30 with a high 4/5 star UVA rating. Some people prefer to use SPF 50 which is nearer to a total sun block as properly applied it can block 96 to 98% of UVA rays. If you have sun sensitive skin, then higher end cost brands may also be hypoallergenic. Sun cream should be applied at least 30 mins before going out, and can be applied under make up. Many make up foundation brands now also have an SPF factor added in. Wearing a wide brimmed hat also helps. 

I hope that this is useful,

Best wishes,

Vanda

Hi Vanda Thank you too for taking time from a no doubt busy forum to respond. It has set my mind at ease and I now carry sun screen in my car for emergency. I am usually very keen to cover up and keep protected so this episode has frustrated and distressed me. Your soothing words are like after sun on my red face ... If you think I have nothing to concern myself I will move on from the anxiety. It is so daft I know but it always seem so prevalent and I want to do the best to keep as many factors as I can influence at the front of my mind. Thank you again

Steve