5 Everyday Habits That Increase Your Risk of Skin Cancer 

Introduction

Many people believe that skin cancer only develops after years of sun exposure or excessive tanning. The truth, however, is that skin cancer can creep up silently—stemming from small, everyday habits that seem harmless at first.

According to Dr Shaun Segal, a reputed dermatologist who has successfully treated numerous skin-related illnesses, it’s not necessarily one big mistake that causes skin cancer, but rather a collection of small, consistent habits accumulated over the years.

The good news? Most of these habits are easy to fix once you know what to look out for. Below are five everyday habits highlighted by Dr Shaun Segal that quietly increase your risk of skin cancer—and how you can protect yourself.

1. Leaving Sunscreen Out on a Cloudy or Cold Day

One of the biggest myths Dr Shaun Segal often encounters in his clinic is the belief that sunscreen is only needed during summer. In reality, UV rays are present every day, regardless of the temperature.

Clouds might cool the weather, but up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate them, meaning your skin is still exposed to radiation that damages DNA and increases your long-term risk of skin cancer.

How to fix it:

• Make sunscreen part of your morning routine—apply it like you brush your teeth.
  
  
• Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
  
  
• Don’t forget areas people often ignore—neck, ears, hands, and tops of feet.
  
  
• Reapply every two hours when outdoors or after sweating.
  
  

According to Dr Shaun Segal, daily sunscreen use can cut your risk of skin cancer by half. It’s one of the simplest and most effective forms of protection.

2. Using Tanning Beds or Trying to Get a “Base Tan”

Many people still believe that getting a tan before a vacation helps prevent sunburn. However, a tan is already a sign of skin damage—not protection.

Worse yet, tanning beds expose you to UV radiation that can be up to 15 times stronger than the midday sun. This artificial exposure accelerates skin aging, destroys collagen, and significantly increases your risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

How to fix it:

• Avoid tanning beds altogether—there’s no safe way to get a tan through UV exposure.
  
  
• Use self-tanning lotions or sprays for a sun-kissed look instead.
  
  
• Moisturize your skin after sun exposure to soothe and repair damage.
  
  

As Dr Shaun Segal explains, your skin remembers every tan and burn—even the minor ones. Every bit of damage adds up over time. Protect your skin today for a healthier tomorrow.

3. Ignoring Changes in Moles or Spots

A new mole or a change in an existing one is often one of the earliest signs of skin cancer. Unfortunately, many people overlook these changes or dismiss them as harmless.

Dr Shaun Segal stresses the importance of self-checks using the “ABCDE” rule:

• Asymmetry
  
  
• Border irregularity
  
  
• Color variation
  
  
• Diameter over 6mm
  
  
• Evolution (changes over time)
  
  

If a mole bleeds, irritates, or changes color, don’t wait—book an appointment with a dermatologist immediately.

How to fix it:

• Examine your skin once a month under bright light using a mirror to check hard-to-see areas.
  
  
• Visit a dermatologist like Dr Shaun Segal at least once a year, or more frequently if you have a family history of skin cancer.
  
  

Skin cancer is one of the most visible and detectable cancers, and early detection can make all the difference in successful treatment.

4. Forgetting Sunscreen While Indoors or on the Road

You might assume you’re safe indoors, but UV rays can penetrate through car and window glass, meaning your skin is still exposed when driving or sitting near windows.

Dr Shaun Segal has seen numerous cases of asymmetric skin aging and sun damage—often more pronounced on the left side of the face (the driver’s side). Prolonged exposure during commutes can increase your risk of developing skin cancer over time.

How to fix it:

• Wear sunscreen every morning, even if you plan to stay indoors.
  
  
• Apply UV-blocking window films to your home or office windows.
  
  
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses during long drives.
  
  

Even indirect UV exposure adds up—these small preventive measures can make a big difference in your skin’s long-term health.

5. Skipping Regular Dermatologist Visits

Many people only visit a dermatologist after noticing something suspicious. However, preventive checkups are just as important as treating visible issues.

Dr Shaun Segal emphasizes that routine skin exams help catch potential problems early—before they become dangerous.

How to fix it:

• Schedule a full-body skin exam once a year.
  
  
• Go more often if you have fair skin, a history of sunburns, or a family history of melanoma.
  
  
• Ask your dermatologist about mole mapping or digital skin tracking for detailed monitoring.
  
  

According to Dr Shaun Segal, awareness is the first step to prevention, and awareness begins with regular check-ups.

Conclusion

Skin cancer doesn’t develop overnight—it builds slowly through habits we often overlook. Every small choice matters, whether it’s skipping sunscreen or ignoring a changing mole.

The encouraging news is that most cases of skin cancer are preventable with awareness and care.

As Dr Shaun Segal reminds us:

“Your body’s largest organ is your skin. Treat it with care, pay attention to its changes, and never underestimate the power of prevention.”