Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the world and has been steadily increasing since the 1970's. European rates were seven times higher between 2009-2011 than in the period 1975-1977. This is thought to be because of the rise of the foreign holiday and the tendency of holiday-makers to sun bathe. Sun beds have also contributed to the spike.

There are different types of skin cancer. They are:

Basal Cell Carcinoma – This develops at the bottom of the outer most layer of skin (the epidermis). 75% of skin cancers are this variety.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma – This develops at the top of the outer most layer of skin. 20% of skin cancers are this variety.

Both of these types of skin cancer are called non-melanoma cancers.

Malignant Melanoma – This is a rare type of skin cancer that develops from a mole. If you have pale skin with freckles or red or blonde hair you have a slightly increased risk of having malignant melanoma.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Symptoms of skin cancer include flat and scaly patches, red, pink or shiny white lumps on the skin that don't heal, lumps that bleed or skin ulcers that don't heal, moles that change shape or grow bigger, moles that change colour or moles that itch or bleed.

If you have any of the symptoms of skin cancer and your skin doesn't heal don't wait to go to the doctor. You probably don't have cancer but it's best to know one way or the other as early diagnosis and treatment increase your chances of a full recovery.

Diagnosis

The doctor will examine your skin and if he or she feels there is cause for concern he will refer you to a consultant dermatologist. A biopsy will be taken so that a sample of the affected skin can be tested to see if it contains cancer. Sometimes any tumours can be removed at the same time.

For expert diagnosis and treatment of your skin condition or cancer you can trust The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic, one of London's top private dermatology centres. None of the doctor's at the dermatology clinic are juniors so you can be reassured that you will be cared for by a medical professional with years of experience.

An appointment lasts up to 40 minutes and provides an opportunity for you to discuss your medical issues and ask questions. If it is necessary to have tests or take samples, this will be done and you will be given a treatment plan. A great advantage of choosing the Harley Street Dermatology Clinic is that you can have an appointment that suits you, including Saturday's. Home visits may also be available.

You can book by telephoning the clinic, or, if you have private medical insurance, by asking your GP to refer you.