Melanoma Prevention Tips You Can Use Today

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, but most cases are linked to things you can control. The good news? A few everyday habits can cut your risk dramatically.

Shield Your Skin from UV Rays

The biggest trigger for melanoma is ultraviolet (UV) exposure. That means both the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds. Here’s how to stay covered:

• Wear a broad‑brimmed hat whenever you’re outdoors for more than 15 minutes.
• Choose clothing with a tight weave or an UPF rating – long sleeves work even on hot days.
• Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every two hours or after swimming.

Don’t rely on “clear” days to skip the sunscreen. UV rays penetrate clouds, so a quick swipe is worth it any time you step outside.

Know Your Skin and Spot Changes Early

Melanoma often shows up as a new mole or a change in an existing spot. The ABCDE rule helps you remember what to look for:

• Asymmetry – one half doesn’t match the other.
• Border irregularity – jagged or blurred edges.
• Color variation – shades of brown, black, red, or white in the same spot.
• Diameter larger than 6 mm (about a pencil eraser).
• Evolving – any change over weeks or months.

Do a full‑body skin check once a month. Use a mirror for hard‑to‑see areas and ask a partner to help with the back and scalp.

If you notice anything odd, see a dermatologist right away. A quick biopsy can catch melanoma early when it’s most treatable.

Other practical tips include staying out of peak sun hours (10 am–4 pm), seeking shade whenever possible, and avoiding indoor tanning altogether – it’s just another source of UV damage.

Nutrition plays a supporting role, too. Foods rich in antioxidants like berries, leafy greens, and nuts help your skin repair DNA damage from UV exposure.

Finally, remember that family history matters. If close relatives had melanoma, talk to your doctor about more frequent skin exams or even genetic counseling.

Putting these steps into your routine doesn’t take much time, but the payoff is big: a lower chance of developing a serious skin cancer and peace of mind knowing you’re doing what you can to stay safe.