How can I lower skin cancer risk, and is sunscreen enough?
Reducing ultraviolet exposure includes shade, protective clothing, a hat and avoiding tanning devices, alongside suitable broad-spectrum sunscreen. Sunscreen does not give complete protection or make prolonged exposure safe. Changing or non-healing skin lesions deserve examination.
Details
Choose and use sunscreen properly
The American Academy of Dermatology advises SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection and water resistance when appropriate. Apply enough and reapply according to the label, especially after swimming or sweating, covering exposed areas.
Notice changes without self-diagnosis
Watch for a mole changing shape, colour or size, a bleeding spot or a sore that does not heal. Darker skin can also develop cancer; skin colour or lack of pain does not exclude it.
Follow-up depends on risk
Discuss surveillance after previous skin cancer, with reduced immunity or an important family history. One annual schedule does not suit everyone, and phone images or apps should not replace examination of a changing lesion.
Related reading: How can I lower lung cancer risk, and when is screening useful?.