Don't Wait for Summer: April Is When Damage Restarts
Spring sun is already doing the work — protect now.
The AAD projects 234,680 new U.S. melanoma cases in 2026 (122,680 in situ; 112,000 invasive).
The landmark Nambour trial concluded melanoma may be preventable through regular sunscreen use in adults.
Frequently asked questions
How many sunburns increase skin cancer risk?
Risk rises with cumulative burns: research links five or more sunburns to roughly double the risk of melanoma, and even one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles lifetime risk. Preventing burns at every age meaningfully lowers risk.
Does skin cancer affect darker skin tones?
Yes. People with darker skin get skin cancer less often but are frequently diagnosed later, when it's harder to treat — and melanoma can appear in less sun-exposed areas like the palms, soles and under the nails. Everyone, regardless of skin tone, should use sun protection and watch for changes.
Can sunscreen prevent skin cancer?
Evidence indicates yes. In the landmark Australian Nambour trial, adults using sunscreen daily had fewer melanomas — with a statistically significant reduction in invasive melanoma — than those using it at their discretion. Regular broad-spectrum use, alongside shade and clothing, lowers skin-cancer risk.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'How often should I actually get a skin check?'
Sources & citations
- Green AC et al., 'Reduced Melanoma After Regular Sunscreen Use,' J Clin Oncol 2011;29(3):257-263, doi:10.1200/JCO.2010.28.7078
- aad.org ↗