Put on sunscreen. Wear a hat. Stand in the shade.  These are probably a few things you’ve heard once, or a thousand times, over the years by a parent, teacher, or coach.  However, roughly 5.4 million basal and squamous cell skin cancers are diagnosed each year, affecting more than three million people (some individuals have more than one skin cancer). Skin cancers are by far the most common type of cancer in the United States. The American Cancer Society says this is probably due to better skin cancer detection, people getting more exposure to the sun, and people living longer.  But what are we forgetting? 

Tim Smile, MD, is a radiation oncologist with OSF HealthCare. He breaks down key tips for people to remember before heading outside. He says to use broad-spectrum sunscreen.

He encourages you to not forget the tops of your ears, the back of your neck or between the top of your chest and neck. 

A cloudy sky doesn’t mean the UV rays aren’t there.

Dr. Smile says the sun is the strongest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and recommends using the shade, wearing a broad-brimmed hat and applying sunscreen as good first steps. But don’t forget to reapply, as sunscreen doesn’t last all day. The general recommendation is to reapply every two hours during the day. 

Rarely, skin cancers can present with locally advanced tumors requiring radiation therapy.

A lot of times, skin cancers that happen in the head and neck are not only cosmetically challenging to deal with surgically but have a higher risk of deep invasion, spreading along nerves, or spreading to lymph nodes. Don’t forget your lips! 

Dr. Smile says you should speak with your primary care provider and/or dermatologist once a year to keep things in check.