Can Darker-skinned People Get Skin Cancer? 7 Sun Safety Tips for Darker Skin by Dr. Hannah Chow-Johnson

There is a misconception that people of color won’t develop skin cancer due to sun exposure. The reality is skin cancer doesn’t discriminate; anyone can get skin cancer from UV exposure. As an example, research has shown that in the past decade the number of Latinos with melanoma has risen almost 20 percent. It really is important for all skin types to practice sun safety. 30Seconds contributor Katie Sloan shares these seven sun-safety tips:

• Seek shade especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wear UV-absorbing clothing, swimsuits and rash guards with UPF of 30+.
• Remember hats and sunglasses.
• Thirty minutes before you head out, apply water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+. Reapply often.
• Keep babies under 6 months out of the sun. Apply sunscreen to older kids.
• Check your medicine cabinet. Some OTC and prescription meds can increase your risk of burning.
• About 90 percent of skin’s aging comes from the sun, so wear sunscreen year round.

The information on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information provided through this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal health care provider.