Skin cancers are the most frequent malignancies that we will encounter in our lifetimes. We will have a one-in-five lifetime risk of developing skin cancer.

In the U.S., skin can be damaged by UVA and UVB rays. The damage is found more frequently because of environmental causes, an increased number of aging individuals, and continued use of tanning beds.

Basal cell and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas, along with melanoma, are well known types of skin cancer that doctors treat.

Basal cell is the most common (>80 percent), grows slowly and is treatable by excision.

Cutaneous squamous skin cancers are more frequently found on people with darker skin tones. Risk factors for this kind of cancer involve use of tanning beds and prolonged use of immunological suppressive medication (from organ transplant and HIV).

Cutaneous melanomas are the third most common carcinoma. This cancer is associated with UV exposure, a family history of melanoma and the presence of precancerous skin lesions. Of all skin cancers we see, melanoma is most likely to lead to disseminated carcinomas and death.

Generally, skin lesions that appear abnormal are found by the patient or a family member. Some people rely on the family doctor or dermatologist to carefully examine the exposed skin.

There are newer techniques available to carefully examine the lesion and the surrounding area without requiring an excision biopsy. The use of artificial intelligence software is being investigated to screen so that unnecessary surgery can be avoided.

Use of sunblock

There are over 130 sunscreen products available. Consumer Reports, in its research into popular brands, found that most people use less than half the amount to give adequate sun protection.

Not every sunscreen product reports an SPF (sun protection factor).

There is aggressive marketing between sunscreen companies. The active ingredients avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, etc., are formulated so that the cream or lotion soaks into the skin. It protects your skin by soaking up UV radiation and converting it to a harmless substance.

These products work best if applied to your skin 15 to 30 minutes before going into the water or out into a hot, sunny environment.

Mineral sunscreens such as zinc oxide work well because they completely block out UVA and UVB rays.

Spray sunscreens work well because of their ease of use, especially for children. You need to be careful not to spray into the face. For hard-to-spray areas, spray into your hand and apply. Read the instructions before use.

Only sunscreens that offer protection from both UVA and UVB rays and have an SPF rating of 15 or higher can advertise broad-spectrum coverage and can claim to reduce the risk of skin cancer or prevent early skin aging.

New sunscreen introduced to the U.S. market

There is a new product that will be made available in August 2026 in the U.S. that offers longer protection from both UVA and UVB. Bemotrizinol has a long safety record in Europe and Asia. It appears to stay on the skin longer in the water and protects against UVA and UVB rays.

Other summer advice to avoid sunburn

Dress for the heat with lightweight, light-colored clothing made from a breathable fabric. Keep the skin covered as much as possible.

Wear clothing with UV protection.

Shoes are important because feet sweat excessively in hot weather. Choose shoes that will ventilate heat and moisture. Socks should propel moisture outward.

Drink up, drink up, drink up! Hydration is essential when in working, exercising or walking in a hot environment. Drink several cups of water before and after exposure to the hot outdoors, and a cup at least every 1-2 hours when outside. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. Check with your doctor about using salt tablets.

When working or playing outside, get out of the sun periodically and into a shady area if possible.

If a person is experiencing any symptoms suggestive of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, or of a cardiac event, get them out of the sun, hydrate with small sips of water if the person can swallow and seek immediate medical attention.

Wear outside garments that have a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating—the higher the better.

Stay in the shade when possible.

Use sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes. If you are prone to sunburn, stay inside from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the UV radiation is at the highest level.