What is non-melanoma skin cancer?
- Non-melanoma skin cancer is a common type of cancer that starts in the top layer of skin.
- The main types are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
- Non-melanoma skin cancer can often be easily treated.
- The main cause is ultraviolet light, which comes from the sun and is used in sunbeds.
- Things that increase your chances of getting non-melanoma skin cancer include your age, having pale skin and having had skin cancer in the past.
- It's possible to reduce your risk of skin cancer by being careful in the sun – for example, by using sunscreen and reapplying it regularly.
Information:
There's another type of skin cancer called melanoma. It's less common and usually more serious than non-melanoma skin cancer.
Important: Get your symptoms checked
It's important to get any symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancer checked as soon as possible.
Page last reviewed: 4 May 2023
Next review due: 4 May 2026