Learn the truth about skin cancer — 5 myths debunked

The sun’s warmth can be a balm to the body and the mind, but basking in those rays without adequate protection can also put you at risk for skin cancer, the most common cancer in the United States.

“Most skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, either from the sun or a tanning bed,” says Zachary Guss, MD, a radiation oncologist at MultiCare Deaconess Hospital. “UV rays are a form of radiation that damages DNA in skin cells, which can lead to premature aging of the skin — wrinkles and sunspots, for example — as well as cancer.”

There are a lot of myths out there about skin cancer, from who can get it to the seriousness of the disease and more. Here we separate fact from fiction and offer tips about how to take care of your skin.

Myth 1: Skin cancer isn’t really that big a of deal — people don’t die from it.

The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, and all three can be life-threatening. Of the three, melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most serious because they have the tendency to spread to other parts of the body.

“Although most people with skin cancer are cured with appropriate treatment, over 10,000 people die from skin cancer in the U.S. every year,” Dr. Guss says. “Also, treatment for skin cancer can be intense. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, treatment can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy. It’s best to take preventive measures now to reduce the likelihood of developing skin cancer later on.”

And what is that likelihood? According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their lives.

Myth 2: Skin cancer only affects those with lighter skin.

It’s true that having light-colored hair and fair skin that sunburns easily are risk factors for developing skin cancer, but the disease affects people of all hair colors, skin tones, races and ethnicities. Studies show that skin cancers in people with darker skin are often not diagnosed until they’re more advanced, when they’re harder to treat.

“Everyone — regardless of the color of their skin — should practice skin cancer prevention strategies, such as avoiding direct sunlight, applying sunscreen consistently and wearing sun-protective clothing,” Dr. Guss says.

Other factors that can increase your risk of skin cancer include a family history of the disease, advanced age and certain genetic conditions.

Myth 3: I don’t need to worry about skin cancer. I live in an area of the Pacific Northwest that’s often cloudy and cool — and I’m not a sunbather.

Unfortunately, cloud cover does not shield you from harmful UV radiation. The AAD reports that up to 80 percent of UV rays pass through the clouds down to your body. If you’re going to be outdoors, wear sunscreen year-round, whether it’s sunny, cloudy, cold or hot.

Plus, skin cancer isn’t just a concern for those who spend time at the beach or pool.

“There are a lot of recreational activities that have high sun exposure — for example, gardening, golfing, skiing, even driving in a convertible,” says Dr. Guss. “Whether you spend a lot of time participating in outdoor recreational activities or work outdoors, it’s important to take precautions. Sun exposure adds up over time, increasing your risk of skin cancer.”

Myth 4: Getting a base tan in a tanning bed will protect me from sunburns and skin cancer.

If you’re planning a vacation to a sunny locale, pack your bathing suit but skip that trip to the tanning bed — a base tan doesn’t do your skin any favors.

“Not only will a base tan not protect you from skin cancer, but a single tanning-bed session has been shown to increase a person’s risk of developing melanoma, one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer, by over 50 percent,” Dr. Guss says. “Visiting a tanning bed significantly increases your risk of developing other types of skin cancer as well.”

Rather than pursuing a base tan, you’re better off focusing on proven methods: staying out of the sun during peak hours (from about 10am to 4pm); using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher; and reapplying that sunscreen every few hours — or more frequently if you’re doing activities that cause you to sweat or you’re spending time in the water.

Sometimes the goal of getting a base tan is more about appearances than sunburn protection. If you’re hoping to obtain that bronzed look, there are safer alternatives, such as spray tans or self-tanning lotions.

Myth 5: I need to be in the sun without sunscreen to get enough vitamin D.

Vitamin D is an essential part of our diet, supporting bone health, the functioning of the immune system and much more. But you don’t have to sacrifice your skin to get enough of this nutrient.

“There are plenty of dietary ways to get adequate vitamin D,” says Dr. Guss. “Fish and eggs are good sources, as well as fortified foods such as dairy products, cereals and some juices. Vitamin D supplements are also an option for people who don’t get enough from what they’re eating day to day.”

More tips to protect your skin

In addition to wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, seeking shade when possible and wearing sun protective gear, the American Society of Clinical Oncology offers these tips for protecting yourself from skin cancer:

• Don’t forget your lips — use lip balm that has an SPF 30 or higher
• Be mindful of surfaces that can reflect the sun, and thus UV rays, such as water, sand and concrete
• Read your medication labels carefully — some medications, such as antibiotics and blood pressure medications, can increase your sensitivity to the sun
• Protect infants under 6 months of age by keeping them covered at all times and in the shade
• Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outside and don’t forget to reapply every two hours or less, depending on your activity level

Wondering if it’s skin cancer?

If you notice an irregular mole or a spot on your skin that looks different than it used to, don’t ignore it. Make an appointment with your primary care provider or dermatologist. The earlier skin cancer is caught, the easier it is to treat, and some forms are curable.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in June 2022 and updated in June 2023.