Before we begin: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. Reduce your risk by staying in the shade and wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen all year.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about sun exposure. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are an invisible form of radiation. They can pass through your skin and damage your skin cells. Sunburns are a sign of skin damage. Suntans aren’t healthy, either. They appear after the sun’s rays have already killed some cells and damaged others. UV rays can cause skin damage during any season or at any temperature. They can also cause eye problems, wrinkles, skin spots, and skin cancer.
To protect yourself :
Stay out of the sun when it is strongest (between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.)
Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher
Wear protective clothing
Wear wraparound sunglasses that provide 100% UV ray protection
Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds
Check your skin regularly for changes in the size, shape, color, or feel of birthmarks, moles, and spots. Such changes are a sign of skin cancer.
Food and Drug Administration
Also known as: Sunburn.
Related topics: Actinic Keratosis, Sunburn, Sunscreen, Ultraviolet Rays.
Categories: Skin, Hair and Nails.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Cancer Institute.
Key Takeaways
Understanding sun exposure is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.