Practice Safe Sun: Your Guide to Skin Cancer Prevention This Summer

May marks National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and as the days grow longer and sunnier, it’s the ideal time to reassess your approach to sun safety. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., with 1 in 5 Americans developing it in their lifetime — but here’s the good news: it’s also one of the most preventable.

From choosing the right SPF sunscreen to understanding UV protection, this is your comprehensive guide to keeping your skin healthy, protected, and glowing — all year long.

Why Sun Protection Matters

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun doesn’t just cause premature aging — it’s the leading cause of skin cancer. And it’s more insidious than it seems. UV rays:

  • Penetrate clouds and windows

  • Reflect off water, sand, and snow

  • Accumulate damage over time, even from daily routines like walking your dog or running errands

The key to sun damage prevention? A complete sun protection strategy that works hand-in-hand with your skincare routine.

What Does SPF Really Mean?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it measures how long a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays (the ones that cause sunburn). For example:


  • SPF 30 means it would take 30 times longer for your skin to burn compared to no protection

  • SPF 50 means 50 times longer


No SPF offers 100% protection, but higher SPFs block more UVB:


  • SPF 30 blocks approximately 97%

  • SPF 50 blocks approximately 98%

  • SPF 100 blocks approximately 99%

Check In With Your Skin

Monthly self-exams and annual dermatologist visits are crucial for catching early signs of skin cancer. Watch for:


  • New moles or growths

  • Changes in size, shape, or color of existing moles

  • Sores that don’t heal

Early detection = better outcomes. When caught early, melanoma has a 99% five-year survival rate.

Shop SkinSolutions.MD’s Best-Selling Sunscreens

We’ve rounded up our top-rated sunscreens to make your daily SPF routine effortless and effective — all dermatologist-recommended and TSA-compliant for your spring and summer travel.



Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum SPF 36

  • Tinted mineral sunscreen with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection

  • Sheer, universal tint doubles as light foundation

  • Rich in antioxidants, hydrating and great for sensitive skin

  • Leaves skin with a healthy, radiant finish




SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral Shield SPF 32

  • Slightly tinted, lightweight formula

  • Offers the highest level of UVA protection

  • Oil-free and hypoallergenic — great for daily wear




SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense SPF 30

  • Hydrating, lightweight sunscreen with brightening ingredients

  • Adds a subtle glow and smooths skin tone

  • Blurs imperfections while protecting from UV damage




Obagi Medical Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50

  • Matte finish, ideal for oily or combination skin

  • Provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 50

  • Absorbs quickly, leaving no residue or shine

Stay Protected. Stay Radiant.

With a few simple steps — and the right products — you can protect your skin, reduce your risk of skin cancer, and maintain a healthy glow all year long. This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, make sun safety more than a seasonal habit — make it a lifestyle.

Explore more sun-safe skincare solutions at SkinSolutions.MD and find your SPF match today.

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