Who Should Get Screened for Skin Cancer?

Summer is just around the corner, and while we all love soaking up the sunshine and spending more time outdoors, it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Kathryn, a dermatology provider at Perlman Clinic, shared this timely reminder:

“A recent study by the American Academy of Dermatology revealed that Gen Z adults (ages 18–26) are at greater risk for skin cancer due to high rates of tanning and sunburns. While tanned skin might appear attractive, it’s actually a sign of skin damage. In fact, a tan is DNA damage — the kind that leads to skin cancer and accelerates aging. Each time you tan, that damage builds, increasing your risk for all types of skin cancer, including melanoma.”

 Sun Exposure & Skin Cancer

• The sun’s UV rays can cause skin cancer.
• 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
• Approximately 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every day.
• Melanoma, the most serious type, is projected to affect 104,960 people in 2025, with an estimated 8,430 deaths.
• Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.
• Protecting your skin also helps prevent premature aging.

Sun Safety Tips from the American Academy of Dermatology

• Seek shade: especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
• Wear sun-protective clothing: such as long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses. Look for clothing with a UPF label.
• Apply broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen: with SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
• Consider tinted sunscreen with iron oxide: for visible light protection and a better skin tone match.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours: or after swimming or sweating.

How to Perform a Skin Check

Look for the following signs:

• A new or unusual growth (mole, bump, or scab).
• Rough or scaly patches.
• Sores that don’t heal.
• Freckles or moles that change in size, color, or shape.
• Itchiness or pain around a lesion. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a visit with a dermatology provider.

Is Anyone Safe from Melanoma? No. While those with darker skin tones have more natural protection against UV rays, anyone can develop melanoma. It’s a myth that only fair-skinned individuals are at risk.

 Prevention Starts With Being Proactive

The best way to enjoy the sunshine while staying safe is to be proactive. Sunscreen and UV-protective clothing are your best friends. And yes — you can still achieve a summer glow while protecting your skin with the right precautions.