Skin sun damage tends to increase with time spent being exposed to the sun.  Over time, sun damaged skin can develop skin cancer. 

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States; but, the good news is many cases can be prevented with healthy sun protection habits and early detection.

Understanding the risk factors, warning signs, and prevention strategies can help protect your skin and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells within the skin grow uncontrollably, often due to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. The most common types include:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Melanoma

Melanoma is less common but more dangerous because it can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early.

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including:

• Frequency of sun exposure
• History of sunburns, especially blistering sunburns
• Use of tanning beds
• Fair skin
• Red or blonde natural hair color
• Light-colored eyes
• Family or personal history of skin cancer
• Large number of moles or presence of atypical moles
• Weakened immune system

Even people with darker skin tones can develop skin cancer, which is why prevention is important for everyone.

Signs to Watch For

Skin cancer can appear in different ways depending on the type. Warning signs may include:

• A new mole or skin growth
• A mole changing size, shape, or color
• A sore that does not heal
• A scaly or crusted patch of skin
• Bleeding or itching skin lesions

For melanoma, many physicians recommend remembering the “ABCDE” warning signs:

• Asymmetry: one half does not match the other
• Border irregularity
• Color changes or multiple colors
• Diameter larger than 6 mm (roughly the size of the eraser on a standard pencil)
• Evolving or changing over time

How to Prevent Skin Cancer

Many skin cancers can be prevented by reducing UV exposure and protecting the skin consistently.

Use Sunscreen Daily

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen generously to exposed skin about 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

Wear Protective Clothing

Protective clothing can help block UV radiation. Consider wearing:

• Wide-brimmed hats
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Lightweight pants or sun-protective clothing

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seeking shade during these hours can help reduce sun exposure.

Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds expose the skin to harmful UV radiation and increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

Perform Regular Skin Checks

Checking your skin regularly can help identify suspicious changes early. Look for new or changing spots and schedule a medical evaluation if anything appears unusual.

When to See a Doctor

A physician or other qualified healthcare provider should evaluate any suspicious or changing skin lesion, especially if it bleeds, grows, changes color, or does not heal.  Early detection is important because skin cancer is often highly treatable when found early.

Protecting Your Skin for the Future

Healthy sun habits can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer over time. Using sunscreen regularly, limiting UV exposure, and monitoring your skin for changes are simple but important steps toward long-term skin health.

If you have concerns about a skin lesion or questions about skin cancer prevention, speak with a physician or other qualified healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.