Skin cancer continues to be a major health problem in the UK (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence [NICE], 2011), despite representing a group of cancers which, in theory, is preventable. The single most important factor in the aetiology of skin cancer is solar radiation, also known as ultraviolet radiation (UVR). UVR is also responsible for other skin changes such as premature ageing, sunspots and sun-tanning. Sunshine does have some benefits in that, in general, it makes us feel physically and psychologically well (Kampfer and Mutz, 2013), and is needed for vitamin D synthesis. This article looks at the way that the sun can damage the skin and the signs that can indicate the development of malignancy. It also discusses the importance of staying protected from the harmful effects of the sun and ways to reduce the risk of skin cancer.