National Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Protect your skin during National Skin Cancer Awareness Month! Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but it's also highly preventable. Learn about sun safety, recognize warning signs, and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful UV radiation.
About National Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Protect your skin during National Skin Cancer Awareness Month! Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but it's also highly preventable. Learn about sun safety, recognize warning signs, and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful UV radiation.
History & origins
National Skin Cancer Awareness Month is observed every May, and the American Academy of Dermatology has used May for its skin-cancer awareness campaign since at least the mid-1990s. CDC materials from the 1990s also referenced May as National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month, showing the observance was already being promoted in the United States by dermatology and public-health groups. The month is centered on prevention, early detection, and education about UV exposure, tanning beds, and skin self-checks.
Why it matters
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, and many cases are preventable with better sun protection and fewer tanning-bed exposures. National Skin Cancer Awareness Month gives people a timely reminder to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and look for warning signs early, when melanoma and other skin cancers are much more treatable. It also helps normalize skin checks and dermatologist visits for people of all skin tones.
How to celebrate
Schedule a skin check with a dermatologist. Learn the ABCDEs of melanoma detection. Always wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when outdoors. Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. Avoid tanning beds and seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM).
Facts
- One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70
- Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer but highly treatable when caught early
- UV radiation from tanning beds is classified as a human carcinogen
- Just one blistering sunburn in childhood doubles your risk of melanoma
- Regular use of SPF 15 sunscreen can reduce your risk of melanoma by 50%
Upcoming dates
- Friday, May 1, 2026
- Saturday, May 1, 2027
- Monday, May 1, 2028
- Tuesday, May 1, 2029
- Wednesday, May 1, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month in 2026?
National Skin Cancer Awareness Month in 2026 is observed throughout May 2026. It is a month-long observance rather than a single-day holiday.
What is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month?
It is a public-health awareness month focused on preventing skin cancer and finding it early. The main messages are sun safety, avoiding tanning beds, and checking skin for suspicious changes.
Who started National Skin Cancer Awareness Month?
The American Academy of Dermatology helped popularize and promote the May observance in the United States. The exact origin of the broader awareness month is not clearly documented in a single founding event.
How do you celebrate National Skin Cancer Awareness Month?
You can celebrate by scheduling a skin exam, using SPF 30 or higher, and practicing sun safety outdoors. It is also a good time to learn the ABCDEs of melanoma and remind family members to protect their skin.
Is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month the same as Melanoma Monday?
No, Melanoma Monday is a separate observance that falls on the first Monday in May. It is part of the larger Skin Cancer Awareness Month campaign and focuses especially on melanoma education and early detection.
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