Your Guide to Sunscreen and Skin Cancer Prevention

As the days get longer and we spend more time outdoors, protecting your skin becomes even more important. Skin cancer happens often, but the good news is that you can usually prevent it.

Understanding how skin cancer starts and choosing the right sunscreen can help you enjoy the sun safely all season long.

What Causes Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer happens when skin cells get damaged, usually by ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. 

“Skin cancer is when there's an out-of-control growth of cells in the outer layer of the skin, often caused by damage from UV rays,” said Katie VanHoveIn, family nurse practitioner at Riverside Healthcare Watseka Campus.

There are different types of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common, while melanoma is the most serious. Catching skin cancer early is important, so prevention and awareness really matter.

Why Sunscreen Matters

Using sunscreen is an easy and effective way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Using it every day can lower your risk of skin cancer and help prevent early signs of aging.

“Consistent sunscreen use is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your skin from long-term damage,” said Dr. Cassandra Lacher, with the Riverside Cancer Institute.

Not all sunscreens are the same, so knowing the differences can help you choose the best one for your skin and daily routine. 

Types of Sunscreen: What to Look For

1. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Choose a sunscreen labeled “broad-spectrum.” This means it protects you from both:

•    UVA rays (aging and skin damage)
•    UVB rays (sunburn and cancer risk)

2. SPF 30 or Higher

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and tells you how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays.
•    SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays
•    Higher SPF numbers offer a little more protection, but no sunscreen blocks every UV ray.

3. Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen

Mineral (Physical) Sunscreen

•    Contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
•    Sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays
•    Often recommended for sensitive skin

Chemical Sunscreen

•    Absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat
•    Typically lighter and easier to apply
Both types work well, but the most important thing is to use sunscreen regularly.

4. Water-Resistant Formulas

If you’re swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant sunscreen and remember to reapply it as the label suggests.

How to Use Sunscreen Correctly

A lot of people either don’t use enough sunscreen or forget to reapply. For full protection:
•    Apply about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your body
•    Use it every day, even when it’s cloudy
•    Reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating
•    Don’t forget commonly missed areas like ears, scalp, and feet
“You want to be applying sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher and reapplying it every two hours,” Katie emphasized.

Additional Ways to Protect Your Skin

Sunscreen is only one part of staying safe in the sun. You can lower your risk even more by:
•    Avoiding tanning beds
•    Wearing protective clothing like hats and sunglasses
•    Seeking shade between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when UV rays are strongest
•    Being extra cautious around water, sand, and snow, which reflect sunlight

Don’t Forget Skin Checks

Prevention also means getting to know your own skin. Checking yourself regularly can help you spot changes early.
Look for:
•    New or changing moles
•    Irregular shapes or borders
•    Multiple colors in one spot
•    Moles larger than a pencil eraser
“Examine your skin from head to toe at least once a month and look for anything new, changing, or unusual,” Katie advised.

If you see anything that worries you, make an appointment with your primary care provider.

Enjoy the Sun, Safely

Being outside is a great part of a healthy lifestyle. With the right steps, you can enjoy the sun and keep your skin safe at the same time.

“Go out, enjoy the sun, enjoy being outside—but protect yourself,” Katie said.

If you have questions about your skin, talk to your Riverside Primary Care Provider about how to protect it all year. If you don’t have a provider, Riverside can help. Visit myrhc.net/acceptingnew.