When it comes to skin cancer prevention, I like to think we all know the basics of sunscreen. Apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every day, remember to reapply, and seek shade. However, given that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, it is always worthwhile to reiterate sun safety. If you follow your dermatologist's advice, get a religious body check, and know the signs of suspicious moles, you will have the knowledge and know-how to prevent skin cancer, or at the very least detect it early.

For more information on what birthmarks and moles qualify as "should see a specialist," which surprising body parts need SPF (P.S.: the soles of your feet), or if you are doing everything you can to prevent skin cancer, keep reading. We tapped top dermatologists for their best tips.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, an estimated one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, making it the most common cancer in the United States. According to Dr. Marisa Gersick, a board-certified dermatologist, skin cancer is "a disorder in which abnormal cells in the skin grow in an uncontrolled manner."

Although you are most likely to hear about melanoma, there are several other types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma. Not all skin cancers are dangerous. If detected early, they may require only a small excision. But if undetected or untreated, the lesions can grow and, in extreme cases, lead to death.

The likelihood of developing skin cancer boils down to two factors: genetics and environment. For example, people with certain characteristics (fair skin, blond or red hair, blue or green eyes, etc.) are simply more likely to develop skin cancer. Family history is also relevant, especially with regard to melanoma. If there is a family history of melanoma, the odds of the next generation developing the disease are higher," he said. It's like playing the lottery. You have a few extra genetic lottery tickets compared to people who don't have that kind of family history. It doesn't mean that you will definitely get skin cancer, but genetics does play a role."

Genetics aside, anyone can get skin cancer. The majority of basal and squamous cells develop from constant exposure to the sun," Dr. Glashofer says. The sun emits ultraviolet rays, and those rays damage the genes. If we continue to sunbathe for years or decades, our cells will continue to be damaged. As we age, our ability to repair damaged cells declines," he says. The result, unfortunately, is skin cancer."

There is good news: skin cancer can be prevented by following sun safety rules and watching out for moles, birthmarks, and blemishes on the skin.

Sunscreen is not optional and should be applied regardless of the season, surroundings, or time of day. As a dermatologist, I recommend using a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30," 'It's a good idea to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen,' advises Nkem Ugonabo, a dermatologist at Union Dermatology. It's important to apply one ounce on the face and neck, the equivalent of two index and middle fingers, and one ounce on the body, the equivalent of one shot glass," Dr. Gersick adds. The scalp, ears, backs of the hands and feet are especially neglected. "If you sweat or swim, you need to reapply every two hours or sooner.

It is also important to note that *everyone* needs to wear sunscreen, and *everyone* is susceptible to skin cancer, even those with darker skin who are less prone to sunburn. The darker the skin, the lower the risk of skin cancer," Dr. Glashofer warns, "but that doesn't mean that people with that type of skin won't get skin cancer. We need to know how to prevent it."

Trust me: baking in the sun for a tan is tempting. But in reality, an umbrella can be your best friend. Says Dr. Gersick, "Staying in the shade and avoiding the peak of the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. will help protect your skin." 'Just because you're in the shade doesn't mean you don't need sunscreen, and the benefits of sunscreen and shade are better than either one alone.' According to Dr. Glashofer, it's all about "risk reduction." While it is impossible to avoid the sun 24/7, seeking shade whenever possible is a smart way to minimize exposure.

Great brands like Lululemon and Athleta have started making ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) clothing. Clothing made with fabrics specifically designed to deflect the sun's ultraviolet (UVB) rays will keep your skin safe, especially on days like the beach when you are exposed to the outdoors for extended periods of time.

Hats are always a good idea, too. Says Dr. Gersick, "Any hat is better than no hat, but a wide-brimmed hat provides adequate coverage and protection."

One of the most important skin cancer prevention tips is to take a good look at your body. Says Dr. Naho Ugana, "New spots, spots that appear to be changing, and spots that generally look abnormal should be diagnosed by a dermatologist." Bruises are normal and not each one is a cause for concern, but they should be checked against the ABCDE checklist." According to Dr. Glashofer, a dermatologist should be consulted if a mole is one of the following: a) an asymmetrical mole, b) a mole whose border is not circular, c) a mole with multiple or changing colors, d) a mole that is large in diameter, e) a mole that changes over time Moles.

"It is evident that there is something to evaluate, such as non-healing, bleeding, symptomatic, or painful.

Skin cancer appears primarily in areas most exposed to sunlight, but it is important to check all areas. Skin cancer can occur on the genitals (which has a large genetic component), scalp, palms, soles, mouth, buttocks, or even nails. Says Dr. Uganaho, "People with melanin-rich skin are especially susceptible to developing skin cancer in these areas."

The last and most important skin cancer prevention tip is to visit a certified dermatologist whenever you see a suspicious mole and at least once a year to have your entire body checked. A dermatologist will check every inch of your skin and detect any problems immediately. Often," says Dr. Gersick, "some spots have no obvious problem, but a specialist can identify and diagnose them. The examination takes only a few minutes, but if there is any doubt, the doctor may ask to perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. The sooner something is detected, often the smaller the spot, the smaller the procedure, and the less likely it is that the skin cancer will spread to other parts of the body."