Top Tips to Prevent Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the entire world. Around 1 out of every 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer by the time they turn 70, according to Skin Cancer Foundation.  

While these figures are scary, the silver lining is that skin cancer is relatively easy to prevent. Simply, the best way to prevent skin cancer is to reduce sun exposure and be mindful of any time spent outside on a sunny day.  

Best Tips to Prevent Skin Cancer 

Seek shade during peak sunlight hours 

UV rays are at their peak between the hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. We know it’s unrealistic to completely avoid the sun during this time; however, you can be mindful of how long you’re in direct sunlight. 

Be sure to take breaks during peak hours by seeking shade or going indoors for a while to rest and recharge. When the sun is at its peak, consider moving outdoor activities to a shaded area, or bring an umbrella or tent for some sun relief.   

Wear Clothing and Accessories for Protection 

If you know you’ll be out in the sun, consider bringing a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt, lightweight pants, a large hat, and some sunglasses with UV-protection. This may seem like a lot, but even just one of these pieces can help reduce your risk of skin cancer. 

A wide brimmed hat keeps sun off your face, neck, and chest. While long sleeves and pants will protect your limbs. Even a rash guard for the beach could be a great help.  

Use Sunscreen Often and Correctly 

Sunscreen should be your first line of defense against skin cancer. It’s very easy to apply and carry with you. The only hard part is remembering to reapply throughout the day. 

To effectively use sunscreen, make sure you have SPF 30 or higher, use enough to cover every part of your exposed body – including neck, ears, and the tops of feet, and reapply every 2 hours as necessary. 

Be Extra Careful Near Water, Snow, and Sand  

Water, snow, and sand can be hidden dangers. These surfaces reflect the sun so much that it’s easier than normal to burn your skin. Even if it’s a gray day, be sure to put on and reapply sunscreen even when it’s cloudy out; UV rays easily break through any cloud cover.  

Avoid Tanning Beds 

Tanning beds can emit UV radiation at 10 to 15 times higher than the sun. Scary stuff, right? This is one of the biggest reasons we recommend staying away from tanning beds. 

According to skincancer.org, nearly 419,000 cases of skin cancer in the U.S. each year are linked to indoor tanning. If you want a sun-kissed glow, we recommend a self-tanner you can use at home, bronzer, or another form of makeup.  

Perform Self-Scans 

You know your body better than anyone else. Take the time to look over parts of your body that see a lot of sun. Monitor any new spots, bumps, or anything that may look suspicious.  

It’s also important to call your doctor as soon as you see anything that looks suspicious.  

The important things to look for are: 

• New spots or lesions on your skin 
• A spot that changes in size, shape, or color 
• Sores that do not heal, keep bleeding, or look crusy  
• A shiny bump that’s red or skin colored  
• Something that looks like a scar with no defined border 
• Wart-like growth 

Skin cancer is a scary diagnosis, but with a little bit of prevention, you can significantly lower your risk. Have fun this summer, but don’t forget to be sun safe and use some of these tips to lower your risk of getting skin cancer.