Melanoma is a type of skin cancer, and while there’s no way to prevent it, one can take steps to reduce their risk of developing the disease. This article discusses how to reduce the risk of melanoma. These tips can help an individual spot the early warning signs and symptoms of the condition and seek treatment before it spreads.

1. Limit sun exposure
This is the most important step to take for people wondering how to reduce the risk of melanoma. Limiting sun exposure will protect an individual from harmful ultraviolet or UV rays, which can damage the DNA of the skin cells, affecting the way they grow. This, in turn, could lead to skin cancers like melanoma. It’s best to stay indoors between 10 am and 4 pm to avoid exposure to UV rays. If one has to step out, it’s advisable to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses. One can also seek out shade when outdoors.

2. Use sunscreen
Using sunscreen is one of the best preventive measures for melanoma. One should choose a product that offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, the sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. It’s best to apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before stepping out and reapply it every 2 hours if one is staying out in the sun for long. One should also reapply sunscreen while swimming or if sweating a lot.

3. Avoid the use of tanning beds and sunlamps
Tanning beds and sunlamps also give off UV rays, so avoiding these is a good idea to reduce one’s risk of developing melanoma. Tanning beds and sunlamps also increase the risk of other types of skin cancers as they expose an individual to more UV rays over a short period.

4. Check moles
It is essential to check the skin, especially any moles, for changes at least once a month. One should regularly consult a dermatologist for a thorough skin examination if they have moles in various shapes and colors. This will help detect any abnormalities in the early stages and seek the necessary medical advice or treatment. That said, it should be noted that most moles are not harmful and do not develop into melanoma.

5. Keep track of family history
Familial melanoma is inherited, so it’s advisable to consult a doctor about gene testing if one has family members with the condition and is wondering how to reduce their risk of developing melanoma. If one is at a higher risk, they can avoid sun exposure and follow the necessary preventive measures.

Keeping these points on how to reduce the risk of melanoma in mind can help lower an individual’s chances of developing it.