Skin cancer prevention is all about practicing sun safety and avoiding harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prevention includes minimizing sun exposure (especially during the hours where the sun is the highest), staying away from tanning beds, using sunscreen regularly, and wearing protective clothing and eyewear.

Following steps for skin cancer prevention is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., with 1 in 5 Americans developing the disease during their lives. The most common skin cancers, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma, are very treatable if caught early. Melanoma is responsible for most skin cancer deaths, but it too can be successfully treated if diagnosed before the cancer spreads to the lymph nodes.