4/27/2026
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Posted by Dr. Sarah Ryan
in
Health and Wellness
Our skin protects us every day. It protects us at work, at play, and when we spend time outdoors.
While skin cancer is common, it is often preventable. Skin cancer is easier to treat when found early. Knowing what to look for and how to protect your skin can help keep you healthy.
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Common Skin Cancer Myths and Facts
Myth: Only people with fair skin get skin cancer.
Fact: Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones. It is often found later in people with darker skin, which can make it more serious.
Myth: A tan is a sign of healthy skin.
Fact: A tan is a sign of skin damage. Any change in skin color from the sun means your skin has been harmed.
Myth: You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days.
Fact: UV rays can pass through clouds. Sun protection is important every day, even when it’s not sunny outside.
Myth: Tanning beds are safer than the sun.
Fact: Tanning beds use UV rays that can increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the most serious and aggressive type of skin cancer. There is no safe way to tan.
Myth: Skin cancer is not serious.
Fact: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. Some types can be life threatening if not found early.
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What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer happens when skin cells grow in a harmful way. This often happens after many years of exposure to UV rays, an invisible form of energy produced by the sun or man-made sources like tanning beds.
Skin Cancer Can Affect Anyone
Skin cancer can affect anyone, no matter their age, skin color, or background. While some people may have a higher risk, everyone benefits from protecting their skin and knowing the warning signs.
Risk factors include:
- Spending a lot of time in the sun
- Using tanning beds
- Sunburns, especially as a child
- A personal or family history of skin cancer
- A weakened immune system
Simple Ways to Protect Your Skin
You can lower your risk of skin cancer by:
- Using broad‑spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days
- Wearing hats, sunglasses, and sun‑protective clothing
- Staying in the shade during the middle of the day
- Avoiding tanning beds and sunlamps
- Taking extra care to protect children’s skin
Know the Signs
Knowing your skin can help you notice changes early. Checking your skin often and helping family members do the same is a simple way to look out for one another.
Watch for:
- New spots or moles
- Spots that change in size, shape, or color
- Sores that do not heal
- Spots that itch, bleed, or hurt
The American Cancer Society offers tips on what skin changes to watch for and when to see a doctor.
What to Do If Something Doesn’t Look Right
If you notice a change in your skin that worries you, don’t wait. Getting it checked early can make care easier and more effective. Fidelis Care members should schedule a visit with an in‑network dermatologist to take the next step with confidence.