The number one cause of skin cancer is the exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Many teens enjoy laying out by the pool in the sun. However, they may not be aware of the dangers the sun can cause.

Cancer occurs when the cells in the body divided too quickly, creating an overabundance of cells usually forming tumors. This disease can occur almost anywhere in the body–even skin.

There are many different types of skin cancer, the most common are, melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

The best way to avoid skin cancer is to not use tanning beds and to use sunscreen to avoid sunburns. However, there is more teens can do to keep skin safe such as staying in shaded areas between the hours of 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Doctors also recommend that people reapply sunscreen approximately every two hours when participating in outside activities.

Even those who don’t get sunburned should protect their largest organ to -prevent premature aging, sun spots, discoloration, and tumors.

Due to the fact that skin cancer is caused by contact with ultraviolet rays, people can usually see the symptoms and can consult a dermatologist.

These methods can help teens stay safe in the sun this summer.