by Rachel Miller, Contributing Writer

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, prevention and early detection. After a long Maine winter, it’s easy to assume that sun protection can wait until the warmer months. Many people associate sun damage with hot, sunny beach days—but in reality, your skin is exposed to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation year-round, even in early spring.

UV radiation is made up of two main types that affect the skin: UVA and UVB. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and tend to be strongest during the summer months. UVA rays, however, are present consistently throughout the year and penetrate more deeply into the skin. These rays are a major contributor to premature aging and play a significant role in the development of skin cancer. Importantly, UVA rays can pass through clouds and even glass, meaning your skin is still exposed on overcast days or while driving.

In the spring, this exposure often goes unnoticed. Temperatures may still be cool, and the sun doesn’t feel as intense, but UV radiation is steadily increasing as daylight hours grow longer. At the same time, people begin spending more time outdoors—walking, exercising, or doing yard work—often without thinking about sun protection. After months of winter, the skin may also be more vulnerable, making consistent protection even more important.

Another important consideration is that sun damage is cumulative. It is not just the result of a single sunburn or a day at the beach, but rather the result of repeated, everyday exposure over time. Activities like driving, walking the dog, or sitting near a window may seem insignificant, but they contribute to long-term skin damage. These small exposures add up over months and years, leading to visible changes such as uneven pigmentation and fine lines, as well as increasing the risk of skin cancer.
Fortunately, prevention is straightforward. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 should be applied to exposed skin every morning, regardless of the weather. If you are spending extended time outdoors, it should be reapplied every two hours. In addition to sunscreen, simple measures such as wearing sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats and protective clothing can significantly reduce UV exposure.

It is also important to remember commonly overlooked areas, including the ears, lips, neck and scalp—especially along part lines or in individuals with thinning hair. These are frequent sites of sun damage and skin cancer, but they are easy to protect with mindful habits.

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is not just about education—it’s about action. Taking a proactive approach to sun protection now helps set the foundation for healthier skin throughout the year. It’s not about avoiding the outdoors—it’s about protecting your skin while you enjoy it. If you have concerns about sun damage, changing skin lesions, or your personal risk for skin cancer, a professional skin evaluation can help guide next steps.