Can I Lower my Risk of Skin Cancer? Screening and Prevention

This is the fourth article in the Understanding Skin Cancer Guide. This guide was developed by the HealthTree Education Team and was last updated and reviewed on May 14, 2026

Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Most cases are caused by UV radiation exposure that can be reduced through sun protection habits. Skin cancer is also one of the most detectable cancers when caught early. Changes on the surface of the skin are visible in a way that cancers of internal organs are not.

Skin cancer screening

Screening means looking for cancer before there are any signs or symptoms. For skin cancer, screening involves examining the skin for any unusual growths, moles, or lesions. Catching skin cancer early, before it has grown deep into the skin or spread to other parts of the body, gives you the best chance of successful treatment.

People at higher risk of skin cancer, including those with a personal or family history of skin cancer, many moles, fair skin, or significant sun exposure, should talk to a dermatologist about how frequently they should be examined.

Types of skin cancer screen tests

Skin self-examination

A skin self-exam involves regularly checking your own skin from head to toe for any new spots, growths, or changes to existing moles. You should use a mirror (or ask a partner) to examine areas that are difficult to see. The goal is to become familiar with your skin so you can recognize when something changes.

Look for the ABCDEs of melanoma (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving), as well as any new sores, bumps, or patches that do not heal.

Professional skin examination

A dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in skin conditions) can perform a full-body skin examination. During this exam, the doctor will carefully inspect the skin from head to toe, including the scalp, between the toes, and under the nails. They may use a dermatoscope, a special handheld magnifying device with a light, to examine suspicious areas more closely.

Total body photography

For people at high risk, such as those with many moles, total body photography (photos taken of the entire skin surface) can help track changes in moles and other spots over time.

Reducing your risk of skin cancer through sun protection

The most effective way to lower your risk of skin cancer is to protect your skin from UV radiation. Changes you can make include:

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen. Apply a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Reapply at least every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB radiation.
• Seek shade. Avoid being in direct sunlight during peak UV hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wear protective clothing. Cover your skin with long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses when outdoors.
• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps. These devices emit UV radiation and are strongly linked to skin cancer, including melanoma. There is no safe level of tanning bed use.
• Protect children from sun exposure. Sunburns during childhood significantly increase lifetime skin cancer risk. Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sunlight and apply sunscreen to children over 6 months.
• Check your medications. Some medications, including certain antibiotics, diuretics, and acne treatments, can increase sensitivity to UV radiation. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if any of your medications make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage.

Preventive medications and surveillance for high-risk individuals

For people at very high risk of skin cancer, such as those with organ transplants, genetic conditions like xeroderma pigmentosum, or a history of multiple skin cancers, more frequent dermatologic monitoring may be recommended. In certain cases, doctors may also discuss preventive medications or topical treatments to reduce the risk of new skin cancers developing.