As Temps Rise, Dermatologists Urge Sun Protection to Lower Skin Cancer Risk

As temperatures rise and more people head outdoors, whether it’s to the beach, poolside, or just enjoying the sunshine, dermatologists are reminding everyone to protect their skin. Raul Martinez caught up with Dr. Rebecca Drums, a board-certified dermatologist at Cross Dermatology in Wellesley, who emphasized the importance of sun safety.

“I have some patients who feel like, ‘I got all this exposure early in life, in my teens and 20s, so it’s not worth protecting now,’” said Dr. Drums. “But it’s really not true.” She noted that skin cancer rates are rising dramatically. According to the American Cancer Society, over 104,000 new cases of melanoma are expected to be diagnosed in 2025, with more than 8,000 deaths anticipated.

Dr. Drums advises patients to keep a close eye on their skin, watching for new or unusual spots. She emphasized wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30, reapplying every two hours, and wearing protective clothing, hats, and UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors.

One often-overlooked detail: sun damage can happen indoors, too. Dr. Drums explained that UV rays can pass through window glass, contributing to skin cancer risk and premature aging. “Make sunscreen part of your morning routine, no matter what your activity is,” she urged.

So, as you embrace the warmer weather, remember to stay vigilant about sun protection to keep your skin healthy and reduce your cancer risk.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.