Sun Safety Resources

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The two most common skin cancers (basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas) are highly curable but can be disfiguring and costly. Melanoma (the third most common skin cancer) may be deadly. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from a tanning device can cause dangerous, lasting damage to your skin.

General risk factors include:

Light skin, or skin that burns, freckles, or reddens easily; but skin of all colors can get skin cancer
Large number of moles
Personal or family history of skin cancer
History of sun exposure
History of sunburns, especially in early life
History of indoor tanning
- the average tanning bed gives of 2 to 10 times more UVA radiation than the sun
- using tanning beds before the age of 35 increases a person's risk for developing melanoma by 75%

ABCDEs of Melanoma

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. When detected early, melanoma is highly treatable. Know your skin and perform a self-exam each month. You can even ask a partner or friend to look at your back and scalp.

If you see any of these warning signs, show them to your provider right away:

Asymmetry: A mole that have an asymmetrical appearance
Border: A mole that has blurry and/or jagged edges
Color: A mole that has more than one color
Diameter: A mole with a diameter larger than a pencil eraser (6 mm or 1/4 inch)
Evolution: A mole that has gone through changes in size, shape, or color

Learn more about the ABCDEs of melanoma and how to perform a skin self-exam.

Skin Cancer in People of Color

Even if you have a darker skin tone, always tan or rarely burn, you can still get skin cancer. Skin cancer is often diagnosed later in people of color, making it harder to treat. Melanoma in people of color most often occurs on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, under the nail (subungual) and in the nail areas. No matter your skin tone, UV radiation can lead to skin damage, premature aging, and hyperpigmentation. Protecting your skin is important!

Preventing UV Light Exposure

Check the UV Index - Know Before You Go!

The UV index can be found in most weather apps and from the National Weather Service.
Dermatologists recommend sun protection when the UV index is 3 and above

Seeking shade

Find shade under a dense tree canopy, shade sail, or pavilion
Carry a sun umbrella for personal shade
Use a pop-up UV shelter when at the beach or park
Whenever possible, stay out of the sun from 10 AM - 4 PM when UV radiation is the strongest

Sunscreen

Broad spectrum UVA and UVB, SPF 30 or higher
Reapplication is necessary every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off
Most people do not put on enough sunscreen–aim for one ounce, which is about a shot glass or palmful

Protective clothing

Long sleeves/pants with a dense weave or built in UPF
Wide-brimmed hat
Closed-toe shoes and socks that cover the ankle

Sunglasses

Choose sunglasses with a UV protective coating
Wearing sunglasses helps protect the delicate skin around our eyes
UV rays can also increase risk of cataracts & macular degeneration–it makes sense to protect your eyes!