As we head into the sunny days of summer, many of us look forward to spending more time outdoors. But with warmer weather comes increased sun exposure—and with it, a heightened risk of skin cancer. That’s why May, designated as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, is the perfect time to educate ourselves on the importance of skin protection.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. The good news? Most cases are preventable. With a proactive approach to sun safety, regular skin checks, and smart skincare habits, you can reduce your risk significantly.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from sun protection strategies to how to spot early signs of skin cancer. Your skin is your body’s largest organ—let’s protect it.
Understanding Skin Cancer
Types of Skin Cancer
There are three major types of skin cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- The most common form of skin cancer.
- Often appears as a flesh-colored bump or pink patch of skin.
- Rarely spreads, but can be disfiguring if untreated.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Typically appears as a red, scaly patch or sore that may crust or bleed.
- Can grow deep into the skin and spread if not treated.
Melanoma
- The deadliest form of skin cancer.
- Often develops from an existing mole or appears as a new dark spot.
- Early detection is critical—melanoma can spread quickly.
Sun Safety Basics: How to Protect Your Skin
1. Use Sunscreen Daily
The most effective way to protect your skin is by applying sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy.
- Broad-spectrum: Blocks both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
- SPF 30 or higher: Offers strong protection without being too heavy.
- Water-resistant: Ideal for swimming or sweaty activities.
How to apply sunscreen correctly:
- Apply 15–30 minutes before going outdoors.
- Use at least one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
- Reapply every two hours—or immediately after swimming or sweating.
2. Seek Shade
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to stay in the shade during these hours, especially when UV levels are high.
3. Wear Protective Clothing
Clothing is one of the most effective forms of sun protection:
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants made with tightly woven fabric
- Wide-brimmed hats to protect your face, ears, and neck
- UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes
- Some clothing is labeled with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). Aim for UPF 30 or higher.
Smart Summer Habits to Minimize UV Exposure
Check the UV Index
Before heading outdoors, check the daily UV Index. This index, provided by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), rates the strength of ultraviolet rays on a scale from 1 to 11+.
Avoid Tanning Beds
Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation and increase the risk of all types of skin cancer. If you want a sun-kissed look, opt for sunless tanning products like lotions, sprays, or professional airbrush tanning.
How to Spot the Early Warning Signs of Skin Cancer
Perform Regular Skin Self-Exams
A monthly self-exam can help you detect skin cancer early, when it’s most treatable.
- Steps to perform a skin check:
- Use a full-length mirror and a hand mirror.
- Examine your face, ears, neck, and scalp.
- Check your chest, stomach, back, and sides.
- Don’t forget arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet, and nails.
Know the ABCDEs of Melanoma
Use the ABCDE rule to evaluate moles and other marks on your skin:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
- B – Border: Edges are irregular or blurred.
- C – Color: Varies in shades of brown, black, or other colors.
- D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- E – Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or color.
See a dermatologist if you notice anything suspicious, even if it doesn’t meet all the criteria.
When to See a Dermatologist
Even if you don’t notice anything unusual, schedule annual skin exams with a board-certified dermatologist—especially if you have:
- Fair skin or a history of sunburns
- A family or personal history of skin cancer
- A large number of moles or atypical moles
Take Action This Summer
Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that protecting your skin is a year-round commitment—but especially crucial during summer. With rising temperatures and more time spent outdoors, it’s essential to take proactive steps to guard against harmful UV exposure.
By wearing sunscreen, covering up, performing skin checks, and educating others, you can help prevent skin cancer and support the broader mission of awareness and advocacy.