Sun protection basics

Most skin cancers are linked to ultraviolet (UV) light, which means most are preventable. Protect your skin every day, not only at the beach.

• Seek shade, especially from 10am to 4pm when UV is strongest.
• Cover up with clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Use sunscreen — broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, water-resistant. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Avoid tanning beds — they emit UV that raises melanoma risk.
• Protect children — early-life sunburns especially raise lifelong risk.

Every skin tone needs protection. Skin cancer can affect anyone.