Protect Yourself from the Sun

 Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which causes premature aging of the skin, wrinkles, cataracts, and skin cancer. The amount of damage from UV exposure depends on the strength of the light, the length of
exposure, and whether the skin is protected. There are no safe UV rays or safe suntans.

Skin Cancer

Sun exposure at any age can cause skin cancer. Be especially careful in the sun if you burn easily, spend a lot of time outdoors, or have any of the following physical features:

    Numerous, irregular, or large moles.
    Freckles.
    Fair skin.
    Blond, red, or light brown hair.
Self-Examination

It's important to examine your body monthly because skin cancers detected early can almost always be cured. The most important warning sign is a spot on the skin that is changing in size, shape, or color during a period of 1 month to 1 or 2 years.

Skin cancers often take the following forms:

    Pale, wax-like, pearly nodules.
    Red, scaly, sharply outlined patches.
    Sores that don't heal.
    Small, mole-like growths - melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.

If you find such unusual skin changes, see a health care professional immediately.