The truth about skin cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world — but also one of the most preventable. Despite how widespread it is, most of us still underestimate the risks that come with too much sun, and overestimate how well we're protecting ourselves. The good news? A little knowledge goes a long way. So let's get into it — what skin cancer actually is, how to spot warning signs early, and how to enjoy the sun without letting it work against you.

What is skin cancer ?

Skin cancer happens when skin cells start growing out of control — usually because UV radiation has damaged their DNA. Over time, that damage builds up and can trigger mutations that cause abnormal cell growth. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or skin tone, though people with lighter skin and more sun exposure tend to face higher risk.

The three main types

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form. It often shows up as a waxy bump or a persistent sore that doesn't heal. It grows slowly and rarely spreads, but it can cause real damage if left untreated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is more aggressive. It can develop into larger growths and spread to deeper tissues if not caught in time.

Melanoma is the most serious type. It often appears as an irregularly shaped or unevenly coloured mole and can spread to other organs quickly if not caught early. It's the one that gets the most attention — for good reason.

Know your spots: the ABCDE guide

The earlier skin cancer is caught, the easier it is to treat. That's why regular skin checks matter. When you're looking at a mole or spot, use the ABCDE method:

• A — Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't match the other.
• B — Border: The edges are ragged, notched, or blurred rather than smooth.
• C — Colour: There's variation in shade — different browns, blacks, or even patches of red, white, or blue.
• D — Diameter: The spot is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) — though melanomas can be smaller.
• E — Evolution: The spot is changing in size, shape, colour, or elevation — or it's a new spot that looks different from your others.

If any of these apply, don't wait it out. Get it checked by a dermatologist.

How to do a skin self-check

Once a month, take 10 minutes in good lighting to look over your skin from head to toe — including your scalp, the soles of your feet, between your toes, and your nails. Use a hand mirror for hard-to-see areas like your back and the back of your legs. Getting to know your skin means you'll actually notice when something changes.

When in doubt, see a derm. Annual skin checks with a dermatologist are recommended for everyone, and more frequently if you're in a higher risk group. The Skin Cancer Foundation has a dermatologist finder at skincancer.org to make it easy.

Sunburn and skin cancer: more connected than you think

Sunburn isn't just a temporary annoyance — it's your skin telling you its DNA has been damaged. And that damage sticks around long after the redness fades.

• One blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence doubles the lifetime risk of melanoma.
• UV damage is cumulative — every burn adds up over the years.
• A "base tan" doesn't protect you. Any tan is a sign of skin cell injury. It looks healthy; it isn't.

UV exposure is necessary for human health and vitamin D production — but the amount needed to cause a tan is already too much for your skin. This isn't about avoiding the sun entirely. It's about being smart with it: using sunscreen, covering up during peak hours, and understanding that moderation is what actually keeps you safe.

Don't forget these commonly missed spots

Most people remember to put sunscreen on their face and shoulders. But skin cancer can develop anywhere, including places that are easy to overlook:

• Lips — use an SPF lip balm, every day.
• Scalp and hairline — especially if you have a parting, thinning hair, or shave your head.
• Ears — back and tops.
• Eyes — UV-blocking sunglasses protect the delicate skin around your eyes and reduce the risk of eye-related UV damage.
• Tops of feet and backs of hands — easy to forget on a beach day.

UV rays are year-round

Sun protection isn't just for summer. UV radiation is present all year and at its most deceptive on overcast days — clouds block warmth and light, but not UV rays. Snow, water, and sand all reflect UV and intensify exposure. If you're skiing, sailing, or simply out for a winter walk at midday, your skin is still absorbing UV.

Am I at risk of skin cancer?

Some factors raise the risk. Ask yourself:

• Do I have fair skin, freckles, light eyes, and/or reddish hair?
• Have I had multiple sunburns in my life?
• Do I spend a lot of time outdoors without protection?
• Have I used tanning beds?
• Does skin cancer run in my family?

The more "yes" answers, the more important it is to be consistent about protection and to schedule regular skin checks.

Protecting kids

Children's skin is more sensitive and more vulnerable to UV damage than adult skin — and the damage caused in childhood carries long-term consequences. One blistering sunburn before age 18 can double the risk of melanoma later in life. Sun safety habits formed early last a lifetime.

What SPF should you use for kids?

SPF 30 and SPF 50 are both solid choices for children, as long as the sunscreen is mineral-based, offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, and is applied and reapplied properly.

• SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays
• SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays

The difference is small. Consistent, thorough application matters far more than chasing the highest SPF number.

Is Suntribe safe for babies and toddlers?

Yes — all Suntribe sunscreens are made with 100% natural and organic ingredients, making them a good choice for sensitive skin. Once your baby is over 6 months old, doctors generally consider mineral sunscreen safe to use. Before that age, stick to physical protection: hats, long sleeves, and shade.

For toddlers and babies over 6 months, Suntribe sunscreens use non-nano zinc oxide, which sits on top of the skin as a protective barrier and blocks both UVB and UVA rays immediately upon application.

Do kids need a different formula to adults?

Children's skin is more absorbent and reactive than adult skin, so not all sunscreens are equally suitable. Many conventional sunscreens contain ingredients that can cause irritation or allergic reactions in young skin. Mineral sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are generally the safest bet for kids — they don't absorb into the skin. Apps like INCI Beauty or Yuka are handy for checking a sunscreen's ingredient profile before you buy.

How much and how often?

Apply around half a teaspoon to your child's face and neck, and about two tablespoons for the body. Start with small dots spread evenly in circular motions — and don't skip the ears, back of the neck, tops of the feet, and hands.

Reapply at least every two hours, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying — even with water-resistant sunscreen. Setting a reminder during long days outdoors makes it easy to stay on top of it.

Beyond sunscreen

No sunscreen is 100% effective, so it works best as part of a broader approach:

• Protective clothing — lightweight long sleeves, hats with brims, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating.
• Seek shade — especially between 10am and 4pm when UV is strongest.
• Time outdoor activities wisely — early mornings and late afternoons are gentler on the skin.
• Keep kids hydrated — sun exposure increases the risk of dehydration.

Will sunscreen cause vitamin D deficiency?

This is a really common worry, and the research is reassuring: sunscreen use does not significantly impact vitamin D levels in children or adults. Even with SPF 30 applied, about 3% of UVB rays still reach the skin — enough for the body to produce sufficient vitamin D with regular outdoor time. Vitamin D can also come from diet: fatty fish, eggs, and fortified dairy all contribute. Skipping sunscreen for vitamin D is not a safe trade-off. Use the sunscreen, eat well, and get outside.

What if my child gets sunburned?

Act quickly to soothe the skin and prevent further damage:

• Cool the skin — a cool, damp cloth or lukewarm bath helps. Avoid ice, which can make burns worse.
• Hydrate — sunburn draws moisture out of the skin, so plenty of water helps the healing process.
• Soothe with Aloe Vera — pure aloe vera gel or a fragrance-free moisturiser calms irritation. Avoid petroleum-based products, which trap heat.
• Cover up and stay out of the sun — loose, breathable clothing until the burn has healed.
• Watch for serious symptoms — blisters, fever, chills, nausea, or dizziness mean it's time to call a doctor.

How do I choose a safe sunscreen to prevent skin cancer?

When choosing a sunscreen — for yourself or your child — here's what to look for:

✔ Broad-spectrum protection — covers both UVA and UVB rays.

✔ Mineral UV filters — Non-Nano Zinc Oxide or Non-Nano Titanium Dioxide sit on the skin's surface rather than absorbing into it.

✔ SPF 30–50 — effective protection. Reapplication matters more than very high SPF numbers. Read more about it in our guide.

✔ Water resistance — 40 minutes for general outdoor play; 80 minutes for extended time in water.

✔ Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free — especially important for sensitive or young skin.

All Suntribe sunscreens are made with 100% natural and organic ingredients and tick all of the above boxes — including being safe for the whole family, from babies to adults according to independent safety ratings on Yuka and INCI Beauty.