Even when the weather is cool and cloudy, people still need to protect their skin from the sun's UV rays, the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) has said.

It has just launched its annual ‘SunSmart' campaign and has also launched the ‘Epic Fail' campaign - aimed at highlighting the fact that skin cancer is the most common cancer in young people in Ireland.

Between 2008 and 2010, over 2,000 people aged between 15 and 44 were diagnosed with skin cancer and more than 550 of these cases were melanoma, the most deadly type of skin cancer.

Fifty-one people under the age of 44 lost their lives to the disease during this period.

The Epic Fail campaign is highlighting the message that ‘You don't have to get sunburned to get skin cancer, but it helps'.

While acknowledging that skin cancer is more common in older people, ICS health promotion officer, Rosemary Scott, emphasised that ‘the damage that leads to it takes place throughout life'.

"Every time your skin gets tanned or burns, your risk of getting skin cancer later in life is greater. Sun exposure is the main risk for skin cancer so it is important for all of us, young and old, to always protect our skin both at home and abroad, whether at a music festival, on the beach, playing sports, gardening or working outdoors," she said.

She called on parents to be particularly vigilant with their children, as most UV damage is caused during childhood and adolescence.

Ms Scott also called on people to know their skin and what is normal for them.

"Look out for any changes. Early detection is the key to successful treatment. Many skin changes will be harmless but if you find anything unusual call the National Cancer Helpline on freefone 1800 200 700 or visit your doctor without delay," she added.

As part of its SunSmart campaign, people can check the daily UV index on the ICS website. It tells how high the UV index is expected to get over the coming days. If the index is three or higher, people need to protect themselves.

According to the SunSmart Code, everyone should:

-Cover up by wearing a shirt with a collar and long shorts. Wear a hat that gives shade to your face, neck and ears
-Seek shade from the sun when UV rays are at their strongest, between 11am and 3pm
-Wear wraparound sunglasses with adequate UV protection
-Use sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher 20 minutes before going outside and re-apply every two hours. Re-apply more often if swimming or perspiring
-Babies under six months of age should be kept out of the sun entirely.