Skin and Sun Safety
Skin and Sun Safety
Skin Cancer Overview
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The two most common skin cancers (basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas) are highly curable but can be disfiguring and costly. Melanoma is less common, but more serious and potentially life-threatening. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from a tanning device can cause cumulative, long-term skin damage over time.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
- Light skin or skin that burns, freckles, or reddens easily (but skin cancer can occur in all skin tones)
- A large number of moles or atypical moles
- A personal or family history of skin cancer
- A history of significant sun exposure (UV damage is cumulative)
- A history of sunburns, especially in childhood or adolescence
- Use of indoor tanning devices significantly increases risk:
- Tanning beds can emit up to 2–10 times more UVA radiation than natural sunlight.
- Use of tanning beds before the age of 35 increases melanoma risk by approximately 75%.
Skin Cancer in People of Color
Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones. In people with darker skin tones:
- Skin cancer is often diagnosed later, which can make it harder to treat.
- Melanoma more commonly appears on the palms, soles and under the nails (subungual areas).
- UV exposure can still cause skin damage, premature aging and hyperpigmentation.
Protecting your skin is important, regardless of skin tone or tanning ability.
Sun Exposure: Key Prevention Principles
Tanned skin is a sign of skin injury, not health. There is no safe level of UV exposure.
Prevention works best when you use a combined (multilayered) approach:
- Sunscreen
- Protective clothing
- Hats and sunglasses
- Shade and timing awareness
Intermittent sunburns and chronic UV exposure are major contributors to all skin cancer types.
Sunscreens: What to Know
Sunscreen helps absorb, reflect or scatter UV radiation, but should not be used to extend intentional sun exposure.
Choosing Sunscreen
- Use broad spectrum (UVA and UVB protection).
- SPF 30 or higher is recommended for daily use.
- Cosmetics and lip products should also be SPF 30+ (not SPF 15).
- Check expiration dates; if not listed, replace after three years.
How to Use Sunscreen Correctly
- Apply about one ounce (a shot glass or palmful) for body coverage.
- Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply every two hours and after swimming, sweating or towel drying.
- Don't forget ears, back of neck, tops of feet and scalp part lines.
- Sunscreen works immediately but needs time to properly bind to skin for best effectiveness.
Sun Safety Habits Outdoors
- Seek shade when possible.
- Avoid peak UV hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (highest risk period).
- Increase sun exposure gradually if needed (no more than 20 minutes initially).
- UV exposure can still occur in water, snow, sand and at high altitude.
- People with fair skin or red hair should take extra precautions.
Sun-Protective Clothing
Clothing is one of the most effective forms of UV protection.
- Wear tightly woven or UPF-rated clothing (UPF indicates UV protection level).
- Use wide-brimmed hats that protect face, ears and neck.
- If wearing a baseball cap, apply sunscreen to exposed areas.
- Choose sunglasses labeled UVA/UVB protection.
- Wraparound styles provide the best coverage.
Other Ways to Prevent UV Light Exposure
The majority of skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and can be prevented with sun safety practices.
Seeking Shade
- Use trees, umbrellas, shade structures or pop-up shelters.
- Plan outdoor time around UV levels
UV Index Awareness
- UV index 3+ = sun protection needed
- UV index 6+ = limit time outdoors or use strong protection strategies
- Check UV levels in weather apps or at weather sources such as Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Overexposure and Heat Risk
Prolonged sun exposure in hot, humid conditions may lead to heat-related illness. To reduce risk:
- Avoid strenuous activity during peak hours.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Limit alcohol consumption, which can increase dehydration risk.
Treating a Sunburn
Most sunburns are superficial (first-degree) burns and heal with self care.
Home Care
- Cool the skin with baths, showers or cool compresses.
- Use aloe or soothing lotions.
- Over-the-counter pain relief (e.g. ibuprofen or tylenol) may help.
- Protect skin from further sun exposure using clothing or SPF 30+ sunscreen.
When to Seek Care
- Large or widespread blistering
- Severe pain or sign of infection
- Sunburn affecting a large body area
Blister Care
- Do not intentionally pop blisters.
- Cover with a clean, protective dressing, if needed.
- Watch for infection if blisters open.
Skin Self-Checks: ABCDEs of Melanoma
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, but it is highly treatable when detected early. Perform monthly skin checks and look for:
Asymmetry: Moles that have an asymmetrical appearance
Border: A mole that has irregular, blurry and/or jagged edges
Color: A mole that has more than one color or uneven pigmentation
Diameter: Moles with a diameter larger than a pencil eraser (6 mm or 1/4 inch)
Evolution: A mole that has gone through changes in size, shape, or color
If you notice changes, seek medical evaluation promptly. Early detection is key.
Additional Resources
Interested in learning more? Check out the following resources:
- Skin Cancer Foundation
- Skin Cancer Prevention (American Academy of Dermatology)
- Preventing Melanoma (Melanoma Research Foundation)
- Sun Safety (Centers for Disease Control)
- Your Skin is In (Impact Melanoma)
Skin Smart Campus Commitment
The University of Delaware is recognized as a Skin Smart Campus by The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention. This commitment includes:
- A tobacco-free, indoor-tanning-free campus environment
- Promotion of UV safety education and prevention practices
- Alignment with the U.S. Surgeon General's Call to Action to Prevent Skin Cancer
Indoor tanning is strongly associated with increased melanoma risk, especially with use before age 35.
