Essential Facts About Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer Prevention

Understanding Sun Exposure and Its Link to Skin Cancer (Images: Applying sunscreen by Oscar Wong/Getty; Design by Ayana Underwood/Canva) Every summer, the advice to apply sunscreen and minimize sun exposure is reiterated, yet not everyone fully adheres. Skin cancer remains the most prevalent cancer in the United States, with the Skin Cancer Foundation reporting that 1 in 5 individuals will develop skin cancer before age 70. Over the past 30 years, incidence rates have risen significantly, increasing by 31.5% between 2011 and 2019. So, what factors contribute to this upward trend? Dr. Ava Shamban, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles, explains that the rising numbers are largely due to cumulative sun exposure combined with insufficient protection against UVA and UVB rays. It’s crucial to reconsider how we approach sun safety. Here are five key insights about sun exposure from a dermatologist, along with recommendations for safer sun enjoyment. Many people overlook the need for sunscreen on cloudy days, rainy weather, or during winter. However, UV rays are present every day. "The most damaging ultraviolet rays are always around," says Dr. Shamban. "They can pene...