Protecting Your Skin: Essential Melanoma Prevention Guidelines

Understanding Melanoma Risk Factors

• UV Exposure: Primary risk factor from sun and tanning beds
• Fair Skin: Increased susceptibility to UV damage
• Family History: Genetic predisposition
• Multiple Moles: Higher risk with 50+ moles

Key Prevention Strategies

1. Sun Protection

• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
• Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating
• Use water-resistant formulations for outdoor activities

2. Protective Clothing

• Wear wide-brimmed hats
• Choose UPF-rated clothing
• Protect eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses

3. Sun Avoidance

• Seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM
• Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening
• Avoid tanning beds completely

4. Skin Monitoring

• Monthly self-skin examinations
• Document changes using the ABCDE rule:
  • Asymmetry
  • Border irregularity
  • Color variation
  • Diameter >6mm
  • Evolution/changes

Professional Screening

Recommended Schedule

• Annual skin checks with dermatologist
• More frequent if high-risk factors present
• Immediate evaluation of concerning changes

Additional Prevention Tips

• Stay hydrated
• Maintain healthy vitamin D levels
• Consider protective window films in car/home
• Use UV index forecasts to plan outdoor activities