While some go to great lengths for a fake sun tan, others prefer the old-fashioned method

Sun-worshipping Scots are risking skin cancer by using moisturiser, baby oil and even chip fat instead of protective cream, researchers have said.

A survey found that unhealthy sunbathing habits are to blame for Scots having the highest risk of contracting skin cancer in the UK.

One in five polled admitted to "binge" tanning, and a quarter said they used sun lotions with lower than recommended protection, while four out of 10 Scots also admitted experimenting with their own sun lotions, such as cooking oils and moisturiser.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB), who carried out the survey, urged sun worshippers not to "fry" this summer by investing in high-factor lotions.

RPSGB spokeswoman Laura Wilson said: "This is a serious issue. I am worried that people still think the warnings about the sun do not apply to them. In Scotland we have higher rates of melanoma than in Australia.

"Scots tend to think they do not need to use sun creams at home but people must respect the sun at all times and make sure they use a recommended sun protection cream."

The YouGov survey of more than 1,000 people in Scotland found that four out of 10 had experienced blistered or peeling skin after spending too long in the sun.

The RPSGB urged Scots to seek sun protection advice from their local pharmacy.

The spokeswoman said: "They are in an ideal position to give advice on how to prevent sun damage, make sure people get the right protection for their skin and know when and how to apply the right amount safely. They can also advise on aftercare treatments if people are suffering from sunburn."

The society advises applying cream with a minimum sun protection factor of 15, staying in the shade during the hottest part of the day between 11am and 3pm, and wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sun glasses with UV protection.