What Increases Your Risk for Skin Cancer and How to Stay Protected
- posted: Jul. 08, 2025
At Dermatology Center of Southern Indiana, with offices in Bloomington, Bedford, and New Whiteland, IN, skin cancer prevention and early detection are central to our care. Skin cancer remains one of the most common types of cancer, but knowing your personal risk factors and taking practical steps can help you stay protected. Whether you're managing high sun exposure, concerned about changes to your skin, or looking to establish regular skin checks, we’re here to help.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Various factors place you at risk of developing skin cancer. Chronic or severe exposure to ultraviolet radiation, whether from the sun or tanning beds, is a significant factor. Fair skin, light eyes, or blond or red hair are signs of burning easily, so the long-term risk is high. A family history of skin cancer, numerous moles, or a history of severe sunburns or skin cancer increases the risk.
As we age, our overall exposure to UV radiation increases, and skin cancer rates increase in people over 50. However, this does not exclude young people, especially if they use sun beds regularly or spend time outdoors without sunscreen.
Early Warning Signs to Watch For
The most frequent warning signs are new moles or spots, or a shift in size, shape, or color of existing moles. It's also advisable to look for sores that do not heal, itching or bleeding spots, or patches on your skin that are different from the rest. Melanoma, the most dangerous form, can occur anywhere on the body, even in non-sun-exposed locations, so it's worth taking regular self-examinations.
How to Lower Your Risk
Protecting your skin doesn't require extreme changes, just consistent habits. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even in cloudy weather. Wear protective clothing and seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Avoid tanning beds entirely, as they can significantly increase your chances of developing melanoma. Annual skin checks with a dermatologist provide a professional assessment and help detect changes early, when treatment is most effective.
At Dermatology Center of Southern Indiana, we provide expert care and preventive guidance at our Bloomington, Bedford, and New Whiteland, IN locations. If you're concerned about your skin or want to schedule a yearly screening, call us at (812) 339-6434. Regular exams and proactive care are the best ways to protect your health and catch potential concerns early.
- posted: Jul. 08, 2025
At Dermatology Center of Southern Indiana, with offices in Bloomington, Bedford, and New Whiteland, IN, skin cancer prevention and early detection are central to our care. Skin cancer remains one of the most common types of cancer, but knowing your personal risk factors and taking practical steps can help you stay protected. Whether you're managing high sun exposure, concerned about changes to your skin, or looking to establish regular skin checks, we’re here to help.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Various factors place you at risk of developing skin cancer. Chronic or severe exposure to ultraviolet radiation, whether from the sun or tanning beds, is a significant factor. Fair skin, light eyes, or blond or red hair are signs of burning easily, so the long-term risk is high. A family history of skin cancer, numerous moles, or a history of severe sunburns or skin cancer increases the risk.
As we age, our overall exposure to UV radiation increases, and skin cancer rates increase in people over 50. However, this does not exclude young people, especially if they use sun beds regularly or spend time outdoors without sunscreen.
Early Warning Signs to Watch For
The most frequent warning signs are new moles or spots, or a shift in size, shape, or color of existing moles. It's also advisable to look for sores that do not heal, itching or bleeding spots, or patches on your skin that are different from the rest. Melanoma, the most dangerous form, can occur anywhere on the body, even in non-sun-exposed locations, so it's worth taking regular self-examinations.
How to Lower Your Risk
Protecting your skin doesn't require extreme changes, just consistent habits. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even in cloudy weather. Wear protective clothing and seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Avoid tanning beds entirely, as they can significantly increase your chances of developing melanoma. Annual skin checks with a dermatologist provide a professional assessment and help detect changes early, when treatment is most effective.
At Dermatology Center of Southern Indiana, we provide expert care and preventive guidance at our Bloomington, Bedford, and New Whiteland, IN locations. If you're concerned about your skin or want to schedule a yearly screening, call us at (812) 339-6434. Regular exams and proactive care are the best ways to protect your health and catch potential concerns early.
