Though skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, it is also highly treatable and preventable when taking the right precautions. By monitoring your skin frequently and taking preventative measures (such as using sunblock), you can reduce your risk of getting skin cancer.

Staying out of the sun is your best protection. Of course, that is not always possible so stay in the shade and avoid direct sunlight whenever possible. Hats and proper clothing are also positive ways to protect your skin for the sun’s harmful rays.

Be aware that even when the sky is cloudy that you can still suffer from the effects of the sun. It is possible to burn your skin when it is cloudy outside. The same is true with swimming pools. Even if you are in the water, you can easily be sunburned.

Make sure you are wearing plenty of SPF fifteen or more sunscreen every time you go out in the sun. You should also make sure that you reapply it often for ways to prevent skin cancer. If you are sweating or swimming make sure that you reapply after each time.

Children’s skin is even more delicate than your own and therefore must be looked after carefully. However, it is important to remember that children who have not reached 6 months of age cannot wear sunscreen on their skin yet. With that in mind be sure to keep them out of direct sunlight at all times and remember to always keep their skin covered. Warn older children that prolonged unprotected exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can eventually lead to skin cancer and that they would be safer in the shade.

Skin cancer can be treated but it is important for you to pay attention to any changes to existing growths or new abnormalities that appear suddenly. It is most important to watch for any changes like increase in size or irregular shapes. Watching for transparent or multicolored growths on you skin is a must. And furthermore, it you have any cuts or wounds that don’t appear to be healing, consult your doctor promptly.

It is important that you examine your skin every month. Even though this should be part of your routine check up at the doctor’s office, it is also important to make it a habit to do so at home as well. This is one of the best ways to prevent skin cancer. Examining your skin on a normal basis will allow you to detect any abnormalities. That way, if you see anything that does not look right, you can get treatment right away before it becomes too serious.