Hugh Jackman: Wolverine star treated for skin cancer

The star has warned fans to get themselves checked for the disease

Actor Hugh Jackman has warned fans to check unusual marks for skin cancer (Instaqram)

Hollywood actor Hugh Jackman has urged his fans to get checked for cancer and use suncream after a recent skin cancer scare.

Jackman was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of the cancer that grows on the surface of skin.

The 45-year old star was encouraged to get a mark on his nose checked out by his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness.

After surgery to remove the growth, the actor posted a photo on Instagram of his bandaged nose.

"Please don't be foolish like me. Get yourself checked and use sunscreen!", he wrote in the caption.

There have been no further updates on the success of Jackson's treatment and it remains unclear when the disease was confirmed.

Charlotte Fionda, of the Karen Clifford Skin Cancer Charity, told The Independent: "This just goes to show that anybody can get skin cancer. It can be treatable if caught early but education and early diagnosis are vital.

"Be aware that it can be quite disfiguring too. Hugh has been lucky to catch his cancer early, but being vigilant and taking care in the sun is so important as it is often caused by over-exposure."

Australian actor Jackman is best known for his role as superhero Wolverine in the X-Men franchise.

He was nominated for the Best Actor award at this year's Oscars after playing 'Prisoner 24601' Jean Valjean in the blockbuster adaptation of Les Miserables.