By Tammy McCausland
As we enjoy warmer temperatures and bright sunshine, it’s the perfect time to remind ourselves, our families, our colleagues and our friends to use sunscreen and get screened.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. More than 5 million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer each year.1 Skin cancer is one the most common forms of cancer—and one of the most preventable.1 The U.S. Surgeon General has issued a call to action to prevent skin cancer. Being fair-skinned and having a family history of skin cancer are genetic factors that contribute to a person’s risk for skin cancer.2 However, as the call to action points out, “As many as 90% of melanomas are estimated to be caused by UV exposure.”2
Using sunscreen is a preventative measure everyone should take––regardless of their natural skin tone. But not all sunscreens are created equal. According to a recent article published by CNN, only one quarter of sunscreens available for retail purchase are safe and effective.3 The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit research and advocacy organization that investigates the environmental impact and safety of numerous products, published its 2025 Guide to Sunscreens. It may be a helpful tool to help find a sunscreen that works. It’s also recommended to buy new sunscreens each year.
Applying sunscreen correctly is as important as choosing a sunscreen product that offers adequate protection. The American Academy of Dermatology Association offers five tips on how to apply sunscreen correctly and when to reapply.4 Choose a sunscreen that has an SPF 30 or higher, is water-resistant and provides broad-spectrum coverage (both UVA and UVB rays). 4 Apply sunscreen before heading outdoors because it takes at least 15 minutes for your skin to absorb the sunscreen and protect your skin.4 Dermatologists recommend a minimum of one ounce of sunscreen for adults to cover skin not covered by clothing.4 This amount varies according to body size. Apply sunscreen to all areas of your body that will be exposed to the skin.4 Reapply sunscreen often (every 2 hours) and immediately after swimming or if you sweat.4
An article “Sunscreen: Tips to wear it well”5 offers additional tips to help protect skin. Wearing a tightly woven hat with a wide brim, a tightly woven dark long-sleeved shirt or sun-protective clothing are additional useful ways to protect against skin cancer.5 The sun’s harmful UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so it’s best to seek shade during that time.5 Wearing lip balm with SPF 30 or higher is also recommended.5
A recent Q&A6 published by Targeted Oncology provides information about advances in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, persistent challenges for skin cancer prevention and early detection, and misconceptions patients have. The American Cancer Society offers helpful information on how to do a skin self-exam.7 Doing a monthly self-exam can help spot moles or other areas of the skin that may be of concern. A 2023 article published by Harvard Health Publishing suggests that “Skin checks every two to three years are sufficient for 80% of us.”8 The article also highlights the “ABCDE” for spotting melanoma: A=Asymmetry or irregular shape; B=Borders that are uneven; C=Colors that vary within the same mole; D=Diameter that’s larger than the width of a pencil eraser; and E=Evolution or change in size, shape or color over time.8 Use a mirror or have someone else check hard-to-see areas like your back.
If you notice anything suspicious or concerning, contact your doctor. Individuals especially at risk––that is, those with fair-skin, a family history of skin cancer or who have already had skin cancer—may need more regular screenings and should discuss this with their doctors.
So enjoy the summer sun, but be smart and be safe. Protect yourself with sunscreen, check your skin and learn to love the shade.
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