Most people with thin melanoma will be cured, and getting back to normal after surgery is usually straightforward. The main change is that from now on you’ll have to make sure you protect yourself from the sun. You may also feel anxious or upset for a while but these feelings usually get better as things get back to normal.

Some women have concerns about becoming pregnant, taking the contraceptive pill, or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after melanoma. There’s no evidence, however, that getting pregnant, taking the contraceptive pill, or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increase the risk of melanoma coming back.

After any treatment for malignant melanoma, it’s very important to avoid strong sunlight. This reduces the chance of developing a second melanoma.

Protecting yourself from the sun doesn’t mean that you can no longer enjoy sunshine or have holidays in sunny countries, but you’ll need to take sensible precautions which will in time become part of your normal routine. There are a number of things you can do to protect your skin:

• Never allow your skin to burn.
• Stay out of the sun or strong sunlight during the hottest part of the day – usually between 11am and 3pm.
• Wear clothing made of cotton or natural fibres which have a close weave and give more protection against the sun.

Keep your legs and arms covered by wearing long sleeves and trousers. Protect your face and neck with a wide-brimmed hat.

• Always wear sunglasses in strong sunlight.
• Use a high-factor sunscreen (SPF15 or above) whenever you are exposed to the sun. Follow the instructions on the bottle and re-apply it as recommended, especially after swimming. Choose one that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation (called broad spectrum).
• Don’t use sunscreen to stay out in the sun for longer, or instead of clothing to protect your skin. The best protection is to cover up and to stay out of strong sunlight.
• Never use a sunbed or sunlamp. If it’s important for you to look tanned use fake tanning lotions or sprays.

Although your melanoma is likely to be cured you may feel anxious or upset for a while. Talking to family and friends about how you are feeling often helps. You can also talk to your doctor or specialist nurse for advice and support.

Occasionally some people may need more than advice and support from their health professionals and family and friends. Sometimes it’s easier to talk to someone who’s not directly involved. Your specialist or GP can usually refer you to a trained counsellor who can help. Our cancer support service can give you details of how to find counsellors in your local area or see our list of counselling organisations. You can also contact the Cancer Counselling Trust.

After having treatment for melanoma, it can be more difficult or expensive to get life insurance and travel insurance. This can be upsetting, especially when you are likely to be cured. But, as the length of time from your diagnosis increases, it may become easier to get insurance and the cost of your premiums may come down.

To find life insurance it is helpful to contact an Independent Financial Advisor (IFA), who can find the best deal for your particular situation. You can find a local IFA by referral from family or friends, looking in your phone book, or by contacting The Personal Finance Society or Independent Financial Advisers Promotions Ltd.