Ultra Violet (UV) radiation penetrates our cells and causes DNA damage that can ultimately lead to skin cancer. Here’s why everyone needs sun protection, how to prevent skin cancer, and how to recognize the signs of skin cancer for early detection.

Why melanin doesn’t protect you from skin cancer

While people with fairer complexions are more likely to develop skin cancer, people of color (POC) are more likely to die from the disease[1]. POC usually present with more aggressive, later stage cancers and receive worse prognoses [2].

This late diagnosis is due in large part to racial bias in dermatological medicine.  Studies have shown that doctors treating patients of color are less likely to encourage sun protection[3], and less likely to be suspicious of potentially cancerous skin lesions[4].  In a 2012 survey, 47% of US doctors reported that they didn’t feel adequately trained in treating black skin[5].

As a result, POC receive little or no education from their doctors about skin cancer treatment and prevention[6].  Studies have shown a pervasive belief among POC that melanin is completely protective against skin cancer[7].  Although melanin does confer UV protection[8], it does not prevent all UVA and UVB rays from passing through the skin, and POC can and do develop skin cancer[9]. Everyone, POC included, should wear SPF 30 daily, and routinely examine their skin for the ABCDE signs of skin cancer.

Know your ABCDEs

Recognize the signs of skin cancer to increase your chances of early intervention.  Once a month, check your moles for the ABCDE signs of skin cancer.  Don’t forget to check areas where skin cancer often goes unnoticed like palms, soles of the feet, and the groin[10].  Look out for skin abnormalities or growths that change, itch, bleed, or don’t heal- these can be indications of skin cancer. If you think your mole is showing signs of cancer, share your concerns with a dermatologist.

A

Asymmetry–  If you draw an imaginary line through the middle of your mole and the two sides don’t match, this could be a sign of skin cancer.

B

Border– A mole with an uneven border can be an early indication of skin cancer.  Look out for moles that don’t have smooth, clearly defined borders.

C

Color– If your mole is uneven in color, or appears an unusual color such as red or white, this could be a sign of skin cancer.

D

Diameter– Moles larger than 6mm in diameter could be cancerous.

E

Evolving– If you notice that your mole is changing in any way, this could be an indicator of cancer.

Use sun protection

To defend yourself from the harmful UV rays that cause skin cancer, apply SPF 30 daily and reapply every 2 hours while outdoors.  Always keep sunscreen in your bag so that you can reapply throughout the day.

Don’t forget to protect your eyes.  There’s evidence that UV exposure may lead to cataracts[11].  Shield your eyes from UV rays with a pair of sunglasses when you leave the house.

For our recommendations on products to protect your skin from the sun, see Summer sun protection for sensitive skin.

*Featured image by Felicity Ingram for Liberty London.