Skin cancer prevention tips: Stay safe under the summer sun

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors—whether you're at the beach, in your backyard, or just going for a walk. But spending too much time in the sun without protection can lead to skin damage and even skin cancer—the most common cancer in the U.S. according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

The good news? Skin cancer is often preventable. Just a few smart habits can help keep your skin healthy and safe all year long.

 

Why does skin cancer happen?

Skin cancer happens when the cells in your skin grow in an abnormal way, usually caused by too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. The most common types of skin cancer are:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Melanoma (the most serious kind)

Finding skin cancer early makes it easier to treat, so regular skin checks are important.
 

Why prevention matters

Skin cancer doesn’t usually hurt at first. It might just look like a mole or spot that changes slowly over time. That’s why many people don’t notice it until it gets worse.
Most skin cancers can be treated—and even cured—if caught early. But the best way to fight skin cancer is to prevent it before it starts.
 

7 Simple tips to prevent skin cancer

1. Wear sunscreen every day:
Use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher—even when it’s cloudy. Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating.
2. Avoid the strongest sun hours:
Try to stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
3. Cover up:
Wear long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses to block harmful rays.
4. Skip the tanning beds:
Tanning beds raise your risk of melanoma. Choose a sunless tanning lotion if you want a tan.
5. Protect your kids:
Children’s skin is more sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen daily and dress them in sun-safe clothing.
6. Check your skin: Often
Look for new moles or spots that change in color, shape, or size—or ones that itch or bleed. If anything looks unusual, see your doctor.
7. Get a skin check once a year:
Visit a dermatologist once a year, especially if you’ve had sunburns or a family history of skin cancer.

 
Know the ABCDEs of melanoma

Use this guide to check your moles:

• A – Asymmetry: One half looks different from the other
• B – Border: Edges are uneven or blurred
• C – Color: More than one color
• D – Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser
• E – Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or color

If you notice any of these, talk to your doctor right away.
 

Enjoy the sun—safely!

You don’t need to hide from the sun. Just be smart and safe about how you enjoy it. Protecting your skin today can help you stay healthy tomorrow.
 

Sanitas Medical Center is here to help

At Sanitas Medical Center, your health and well-being come first. Our caring team is here to help you stay safe in the sun and protect your skin all year long. Whether you need a skin check, advice about sunscreen, or just want to learn more about sun safety, we’re here for you.
Call 1-844-665-4827 to book an appointment today and take the first step toward protecting your skin—and your health.