Debunking 7 myths around skin cancer
By The Cure Cancer Team | Originally published 31 Mar 2022

1. Skin cancer only affects people with fair skin
FALSE
Skin cancer can develop in people of all skin tones and ethnic backgrounds.
While people with fair skin have a higher statistical risk of developing skin cancer, delayed diagnosis in people with darker skin tones often leads to more advanced cases when discovered. This emphasises the importance of regular skin checks for everyone, regardless of skin colour or ethnicity.
Research shows that melanoma and other skin cancers may appear differently on various skin tones, which is why understanding your skin and noticing any changes is crucial for early detection.
How often should I get a skin check?
You should get a skin check as soon as you see any changes in your skin. You may also want to consider whether you have any family history of skin cancer. If you are at a higher risk, then official skin checks should be more frequent. Regardless of your risk, you should do a self-check every three months and use a high SPF sunscreen daily on exposed skin all over your body - not just on your face.
Please speak to your doctor if you notice any changes like these on your body:

2. Sun protection isn't necessary indoors
IT DEPENDS
UV radiation can penetrate through windows, making sun protection important even when inside. While standard glass blocks most UVB rays, UVA rays—which contribute to premature ageing and skin cancer—can still pass through. This is particularly relevant for people who work or spend time near windows, or in rooms with significant natural light.
Regular sunscreen application is recommended as part of a daily routine, regardless of immediate plans to go outdoors. UVA rays can affect skin even on cloudy days and through window glass. For comprehensive protection, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that guards against both UVA and UVB rays.
How much sunscreen do I need to protect myself?
Skin experts say one teaspoon worth for your body and ¼ of a shot glass for your face. It should be applied 20 minutes before going outside.
Depending on your activity, the recommended reapply for sunscreen is every two hours but we understand that this isn’t achievable for everyone. But, reapplying as often as you can and investing in a good quality suncream can make a huge difference.
3. SPF 4 in your sunscreen is enough
FALSE
SPF 4 only blocks 75% of UVB rays. This is opposed to SPF 30 at 97% and SPF 50 at 98%. If you’re making the effort to put on sunscreen, you might as well give yourself better protection.
4. I need UV rays for my source of vitamin D
FALSE
Yes, we know that vitamin D is often referred to as the ‘sunshine vitamin’, but there are many other sources of vitamin D that are less harmful to your body.
Sources of vitamin D include:
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Fatty fish
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Supplements
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Egg yolks
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Mushrooms
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Some fortified foods
5. Only older people get skin cancer
ABSOLUTELY FALSE
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in young people because they tend to not to take preventative measures to protect their skin.
6. I don't need sunscreen because my makeup has SPF in it
FALSE
While cosmetic products containing SPF offer some protection, they typically don't provide adequate coverage for daily sun defence. For optimal protection, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen as your primary sun protection. When using both sunscreen and makeup:
- Apply your dedicated sunscreen first and allow it to form a protective layer
- Layer your SPF-containing makeup products on top for supplementary protection
- Remember that sunscreen needs to be reapplied throughout the day, which isn't practical with makeup products
7. Any sunscreen will do
FALSE
Make sure that when you’re choosing your sunscreen, you look for protection against UVA and UVB rays.
The difference between UVA and UVB:
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UVA rays contribute to skin ageing
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UVB rays contribute to sunburn
Cure Cancer x HE Australia:
Save your skin and support cancer research

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