That Spot Isn’t “Nothing”: Early Signs of Skin Cancer & Sun Protection Tips
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting about one in five Americans in their lifetime. Thousands of cases are diagnosed daily, making it a widespread concern.
While many cases are highly treatable when caught early, ignoring suspicious changes can allow cancer to spread to other parts of the body, making treatment more complicated.
In this article
Who is Most at Risk for Skin Cancer?
Everyone is at risk for skin cancer, not just fair-skinned individuals. While lighter skin tones may have higher incidence rates, people with darker skin tones can also develop skin cancer, often in less obvious areas like the palms, soles, nails, and even genital regions.
Because these areas are less commonly checked, cancers can sometimes be diagnosed at more advanced stages.
Those with a genetic predisposition to skin cancer, or who are taking immune-suppressing medications are at a higher risk.
Am I Using Sunscreen Wrong?
Many people use too little sunscreen or don’t reapply it often enough. For effective protection, you should:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (protects against UVA and UVB rays)
- Choose SPF 30 or higher
- Apply about one ounce (a shot glass amount) for full-body coverage
- Reapply every two hours or more often when swimming or sweating
Additionally, commonly missed areas include the ears, back of the neck, hands, and scalp.
Skin Care Fact or Fiction?
Base tans protect your skin
Fiction! Base tans do not protect your skin. A tan is actually a sign of UV damage. A "base tan" does not offer adequate protection, as it is roughly equivalent to SPF 4. This level of protection will not prevent burns or long-term damage.
Long sleeves and pants protect from UV rays
Fact! The right type of clothing can be an excellent protective tool.
Look for:
- Long sleeves and tightly woven fabrics
- UPF-rated clothing (designed for sun protection)
- Wide-brim hats that protect the face, ears, and neck
Standard cotton or linen clothing may not provide sufficient protection compared to specialized sun-protective gear.
Tanning beds are safer than sun tanning
Fiction! Tanning bed use can be even more harmful than natural sunlight.
What are the Best Ways to Protect Babies and Young Children?
For infants under six months, avoid direct sun exposure altogether. After six months:
- Use mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide)
- Dress children in protective clothing
- Limit exposure during peak sun hours
Protecting children early helps reduce long-term skin damage and cancer risk.
What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?
Watch for:
- Spots that don’t heal after a few weeks
- Persistent scabs or pimple-like growths
For melanomas, follow the ABCDE rule:
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Color variation
- Diameter larger than a pencil eraser
- Evolving or changing appearance
If you notice any suspicious change, make an appointment to be evaluated.
How Often Should I Get Skin Checks?
If you have a history of skin cancer, visits may be recommended every 3 to 6 months or annually. For others, an annual skin exam is a good baseline to assess risk and catch any changes early.
How Well Are You Protecting Yourself?
Watch the full WFMY 2 Your Well-Being conversation with Sarah Christina Kitts, MD, with Cone Health Alamance Skin Center below.
